MWA 2026 Special Awards

 by Paula Gail Benson

Donna Andrews

Lee Child

The Mystery Writers of America’s board selected  Donna Andrews and Lee Child as the 2026 Grand Masters (representing the pinnacle of achievement in writing and a body of work), Book Passage Bookstore to receive the 2026 Raven Award (for outstanding mystery accomplishments outside the realm of creative writing), and John Scognamiglio of Kensington Books as the Ellery Queen Award winner (honoring outstanding people in mystery-publishing.) Donna won the Agatha the first year I attended Malice Domestic; I met Lee on a Myrtle Beach elevator; and I attended Book Passage’s Mystery Conference taught by Jan Burke, Harlan Coben, and Ridley Pearson.

Space Shuttle Challenger Anniversary

 by Paula Gail Benson

Forty years ago, the Space Shuttle Challenger launched with a crew of seven, Francis R. Scobee, Michael J. Smith, Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, Gregory Jarvis, teacher Christa McAuliffe, and Ronald McNair, a native of Lake City, South Carolina. Seventy-three seconds into the flight the shuttle broke apart, due to the failure of the O-ring seals caused by the cold weather. Today, McNair’s wife, son, and daughter along with other family members and friends came to the Statehouse to honor his contributions. Working with French composer and performer Jean-Michel Jarre, McNair planned to play and record a saxophone solo from space.

Walk for Peace

by Paula Gail Benson

In October 2025, approximately two dozen Buddhist monks initiated a Walk for Peace through ten states from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C.

A dog named Aloka, meaning “light,” accompanies them. Folks watch them pass, and the monks stop to greet people.

While still in Texas, two monks were injured in a vehicular accident. One’s wounds were not severe, but the group’s leader decided to have his leg amputated to begin healing rather than face lengthy surgeries. The monks determined to continue walking.

One monk said, “suffering is part of life, but so is compassion, resilience, and the path forward.”

La Befana

by Paula Gail Benson

This year, I learned the story of La Befana, an Italian elderly woman, who greeted and gave directions to the Wise Men, but completed her housework instead of accompanying them to Bethlehem. After reconsidering, she tried to find them, carrying gifts for the Christ child. Each year, she continues to search, leaving sweets for good children and coal or onions or candy coal for bad ones (in their socks or shoes). She rides on her broom and sweeps away the refuse of the old year. Instead of milk, people leave her wine and cakes or cookies made of alcoholic beverages. 

Bach’s Last Cello

by Paula Gail Benson

sheetmusic-world.com

 

The venerable cello lounged in its case awaiting the performance. Across the room, the centuries younger violins chirped.

“I heard . . .” one began.

“Who knows if Bach played cello . . .” the other interrupted.

The cello knew but wasn’t talking.

A sultry viola twanged. “He certainly could compose.”

In a sound low as the gentlest brush across the strings, the cello’s bow whispered, “Tell them.”

“No.” They either wouldn’t understand or be envious. The cello had sealed Bach’s musical touch inside its frame so whoever bowed, only Bach played. His last cello. Even on “Jingle Bell Rock.”

 

***

 This 100-word story is offered as an entry for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity! 

 

Continuing The Babas Dilemma: Parts Two through Four of a Four Part Tale

Tato’s Mama’s Story: The Adopted Snow Child (Part Two of a Four Part Tale)

NJSV Snow Maiden Doll

by Paula Gail Benson

          Tato’s mama looked sternly at the assembled grandchildren. They fidgeted and giggled. “No respect,” she muttered.

          “Listen,” I instructed my cousins. “So you can judge.”

          They quieted. She began:

“At midnight on Christmas Eve, a childless couple fashioned a snow baby. The next morning, the baby came to life, a beautiful girl they named, Snegurochka.”

          “Like Pinocchio?”

          Tato’s mama ignored the question.

          “Snegurochka played with the other girls. They went into the woods and made a great fire. The others jumped over it. But, when Snegurochka tried, she melted away.”

          Everyone was silent. Then, the youngest granddaughter began to cry.

 

Mama’s Mama’s Story: The Icy Immortal (Part Three of a Four Part Tale)

Ded Moroz

 by Paula Gail Benson

          “Coddled,” Tato’s mama huffed.

          Mama’s mama tsk-tsked. “They are caring. My turn.”

          Silently, the grandchildren listened.

          “Traditionally, Snegurochka accompanies Ded Moroz to distribute Christmas presents.”

          “Ah, Grandfather Frost,” said one child.

          “Father Christmas,” another insisted

          Mama’s mama raised her hand for quiet. “Snegurochka was created from snow by Ded Moroz and Spring, both immortals. When Snegurochka sought to befriend a mortal shepherd boy, Spring allowed her to feel love. But the warmth in Snegurochka’s heart caused her to melt.”

          “Like Frosty?” asked one child.

          “Why are both versions so sad?” another wondered.

          The Babas shook their scarfed heads in unison.

  

Iryna’s Question (Part Four of a Four Part Tale)

Father Frost and Snow Maiden Ornament

 

by Paula Gail Benson

           Neither Baba’s story won the contest. They walked away, huddled together, despairing no respect for tradition and blaming American child-rearing.

          Later, in her room, I found Iryna, my youngest sister, comparing two books. One told the immortal Snegurochka’s story. The other was The Wizard of Oz.

Hallmark Keepsake Ornament

          I sat beside her. “What are you thinking?”

          “The Tin Man and Snegurochka were hurt by receiving hearts. If they remained heartless, couldn’t they love each other?”

          Hopeful little matchmaker, I thought. Smiling, I placed my arm across her shoulders. “Only with pain does one know love is real.”

          With a sigh, Iryna nodded.

 

Snow Maiden
Glass Ornament

 ***

These three 100-word stories are offered as entries for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity!  

The Babas’ Dilemma (Part One of a Four Part Tale)

by Paula Gail Benson

By Viktor Vasnetsov

            My two Ukrainian Babas sat with their scarfed heads touching. Their fierce tempers showed in the whispers spewing from their lips.

“What is it?” I, the favorite grandchild, asked.

Tato’s mama said, “The American babies beg for us to tell the Snow Maiden story.”

“You have heard it many times.”

Mama’s mama replied, “In different ways.”

“How different?” I asked.

“In one version, she is a child crafted from snow by mortals,” Tato’s mama explained.

“No,” Mama’s mama maintained. “She is the daughter of immortals who seeks to love a mortal.”

I advised, “Tell both and let the children decide.”

 ***

This 100 word story is offered as an entry for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity! 

Second Chances

 by Paula Gail Benson

          Despite Heaven’s beauty and comfort, the wait outside Saint Peter’s office seemed interminable. Griffin sighed.

          The female admin viewed him sympathetically. “You miss your earthly wife.”

          “We spent every Christmas together. Now she thinks I haunt her spitefully.”

          The admin’s youthful face clouded. “She wants to move on.”

          “She’s found someone else.”

          The admin made no response. Griffin turned and saw his own pain reflected in her eyes.

          Finally, the admin spoke. “I died young. My true love and I never connected on earth.”

          “Is there still a chance?” Griffin asked.

          She smiled. “Perhaps. Can you set your wife free?”

***

This 100 word story is offered as an entry for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity! 

 

Punk Noir Magazine

 by Paula Gail Benson

Punk Noir Magazine

I discovered a great online publication: Punk Noir Magazine. James C. Jenkins, the July editor, accepted submissions with the theme corruption. Following are the stories, the first two by favorite authors: “Wait a Minute” by Kaye George; “The Medicine Show” by John M. Floyd; “Town Ain’t What It Used to Be” by Jay Bukowski; “Export Issue W/R/T/ Poison Inner Sleeve” by Clem Flowers; “Heart of Darkness” by Daniel Schultz; “Why Slagfield, Texas, Gave Up Football” by Stephen Sossaman; and three flash fictions: “New Borns” by L.P. Ring; “Las Cucarachas” by Ron Riekke; and “The Other Cheek” by Matthew R. Davis.

Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit!

Brenna Bunt/Getty Images/Readers Digest

by Paula Gail Benson

Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit! In Great Britain and North America (particularly New England) repeating “rabbit” or saying “white rabbit” upon waking on the first day of the month was considered a way to ensure good luck or presents. According to Wikipedia, such diverse sources as Trixie Belden and President Franklin Rosevelt indulged in the practice. While some thought of rabbits and a rabbit's foot as lucky, others view them less favorably. In the 19th century, fishermen would not say the word while at sea. Similarly, seeing a white rabbit could mean a gravely ill person in the village would die soon.

New Year, New Book!

 by Paula Gail Benson

I received the happiest news on New Year’s Eve: Promophobia, a book several years in production was being released! Diane Vallere, while completing her term as Sisters in Crime national President, sought members’ contributions to a book about publicity and using social media. I asked if she would take an article describing how to promote short stories and was delighted when she agreed. Time passed as a publisher was secured. Finally, about a month ago, Diane requested that we update our submissions. The result is a terrific guidebook for marketing crime fiction written by extraordinary authors. Please check it out!

Traditions

by Paula Gail Benson

Aoutrow 24-Day Advent Calendar
featured on Amazon

Mom always prepared the wooden Advent calendar, placing unique treats in each drawer.

In the spring, celebrating twenty-five married years, Pop gave Mom a new engagement ring. She removed the original and told me. “Joe, this is for your bride.”

I said, “Keep it for me.”

We lost Mom unexpectedly. Auto accident. With Sheila beside me, I watched Mom’s remains guided into the mausoleum vault.

The holidays approached. Important little things went undone. Regretfully, I lifted the empty Advent calendar, not having the heart to fill it until I heard something rattle in drawer 24. Mom’s engagement ring for Sheila.

***

This 100 word story is offered as an entry for the annual Advent Ghosts event hosted by Loren Eaton at I Saw Lightning Fall. See the other entries there. Thanks, Loren, for the opportunity! 

Colonel Sanders and Santa?

by Paula Gail Benson

In the 1970s, Takeshi Okawara, who managed Japan’s first KFC, began the “Kentucky for Christmas” campaign after visiting an elementary school dressed as Santa. He realized that Japan did not have established family cultural traditions for celebrating Christmas. In addition, fried chicken is similar to the popular dish of karaage, panko-breaded, deep-fried chicken or fish. Some think chicken also might have been a good substitute for turkey that was not as accessible and drier in taste. KFC offered its Japanese customers a “party barrel” which included chicken, cole slaw, and cake. Although alternatives now exist, KFC remains a holiday favorite.

CNN Travel Yuichi Yamazaki/Getty Images

 

Japanese Christmas Traditions

by Paula Gail Benson

Hoteiosho with good luck fan

Japanese children call the western figure “Santa San” or “Mr. Santa.” With few chimneys for him to enter, they consider him a ghostly presence bringing treats. KFC fried chicken is a preferred Christmastime meal, and often must be pre-ordered to meet the demand. A large, smiling Buddhist figure, Hoteiosho, referred to as a monk and one of the seven good fortune gods, is a gift giver associated with happiness. His name means cloth bag and he is never without his sack, which contains life’s good things. With eyes in front and in back of his head, he observes children’s behavior.

Flag-Maker and Caregiver

From: Mommy Nearest

As she grew older, Betsy Ross took in many family members and offered them a home, including nieces, Betsy’s widowed daughter Clarissa, and Clarissa’s five children. With Clarissa’s help, Betsy continued to work as an upholsterer and flag-maker until she retired at the age of seventy-six and went to live with her daughter Susanna outside Philadelphia. Despite losing her vision, Betsy made the weekly carriage ride into Philadelphia to attend services at the Free Quaker Meeting House. Three years before her death, Betsy was completely blind. She spent the last years of her life with her daughter Jane in Philadelphia.

Three Times a Widow

From Wikimedia Commons

Betsy Ross had three husbands. With John Ross, she opened an upholstery business. Following John’s death, she married, Joseph Ashburn, a seamen whose vessel, The Lion, was captured. After being charged with treason, he died in the Old Mill Prison in Plymouth, England. He and Betsy had two daughters, only one of whom lived to be an adult. A fellow prisoner, John Claypoole, brought Betsy the news of Joseph’s death. John and Betsy married and became members of the Society of Free Quakers, which supported the colonists’ fight against Great Britain. The Claypooles had five daughters, one dying while young.

A Woman of Mystery

Percy Moran, The Birth of Old Glory (1917). Courtesy of the Library of Congress.
From: http://commonplace.online/article/how-betsy-ross-became-famous/

While people know George Washington asked Betsy Ross to sew the first U.S. flag, few are aware of her personal history. Born into a Quaker family, the eighth of seventeen children, Betsy moved to Philadelphia at age three. Following her formal education, she apprenticed to an upholsterer, where she met her first husband, a fellow apprentice and Anglican. Because her family did not approve, they eloped. He died two years later. In 1774, Betsy made bed hangings for George Washington. Finding her both trustworthy and skilled, Washington commissioned her, a childless widow of twenty-four, to make a flag he designed.

The Betsy Ross Flag

A biography of Betsy Ross, written by National Women’s History Museum Fellow (2018-2019) Kerri Lee, contains the account of William Canby, Betsy’s grandson, explaining to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania why the United States flag has five-pointed instead of six-pointed stars. When George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross approached Betsy about stitching the flag, their design featured thirteen red and white stripes and thirteen six-pointed stars. Betsy convinced them to agree to five-pointed stars by folding a paper into triangles and creating a five-point star with a snip of her scissors. Betsy then made the first United States flag.

From: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/betsy-ross

George and Martha Washington's Wedding

From: commons.wikipedia.org

George and Martha Washington were married on January 6, 1769, at White House, the estate Martha had inherited from her first husband, Daniel Parke Custis. Many festivities took place during this time of year. Likely, Martha prepared for numerous guests and stocked for them to stay an indefinite time period. Daniel, twenty years older than Martha, had been her husband for eight years before his death, probably from a heart attack. Eighteen months later, she married George, who was almost a year younger. A beautiful widow, aged twenty-six, with two children and an impressive inheritance, Martha made quite a catch.

The Six Pointed Star

The 2021 Mt. Vernon Christmas ornament features the six pointed star found on Washington’s Commander in Chief Standard or Headquarters Flag. The original silk flag, on display at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, is faded from a much darker blue and one of the earliest flags containing thirteen stars symbolizing the thirteen colonies. It indicated Washington’s position on the battlefield or his tent in an encampment. Interestingly, the ornament has twelve instead of thirteen stars. I wonder if they represent the twelve days of Christmas (since George and Martha Washington married on Twelfth Night or January 6)? 

From: Flagline.com