• Age: 16
• Grade: 11

“We were once here? resonates through this collection of short stories set in the small town of Fernie high in the Rocky Mountains. The gossips, the busy bodies, the do-gooders, the miscreants, society high-born and low, they are all here: little Zarah, immigrant girl, Mr. Kenneth Trites Wood, potentate, Ivy Greenleaf, the Reverend's wife, Andy, cheeky boy from Slavtown, Mrs. Arthur Young, tea table heroine. They live in the valley under the regard of the impassive Rockies. Snowy peaks for whom the fortunes and misfortunes of the town whether private or shared for good or bad are only echoes. Each echo a poignant vignette inspired by memories so that these stories are universal and yet redolent of Fernie as it was before it became a well known ski and resort town. In the tradition of fables, tales and yarns, elders are reminded of a time they can remember and youngsters see what a time gone by was like for those who called the valley home.

Gordon Sombrowski began writing in secret at the age of eight when he wrote a 6 page story about Catherine the Great. Forty one years later his husband Kevin pushed him out of the writer’s closet and into submitting a story; it was published. He has written numerous short stories, some of which are published as What Echo Heard. Gordon is working on his second novel, the first sits on his book shelf daring him to send it to a publisher. When not writing he helps guide his family’s business and volunteers in the community with emphasis on the arts in Calgary, Alberta and Fernie, British Columbia.

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What Echo Heard

Set in stunning Fernie, BC, this diverse collection of short stories is sure to amuse, shock and captivate its readers. Sombrowski gives an intimate glimpse into the lives of local characters, cleverly revealing stories through a variety of narratives including those from the town gossips (disguised as barbers and their clients, shopkeepers and their wives), all the busy bodies and town socialites. Each person’s story is as unique and compelling as the majestic scenery surrounding it. From near death wilderness experiences, to first love, rites of passage and tragic deaths, life in this humble, close-knit town will never be the same. Sombrowski’s heartwarming stories of new Canadians and heart-wrenching stories of hardened loggers and miners and their families are sure to leave you wanting for more.

Caution: Includes some sexual content and mature themes.