Something Hidden: Stories

Elaine Margolis
Peppertree Press (2009)
ISBN 9780982300275
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (8/09)


Ms. Margolis has written a great down-to-earth book on a variety of short-stories that would remind you of so many people you have met, or experiences you have had.  Her ability to vividly describe her characters and events makes the readers feel comfortable, yet at the same time has the reader considering the true meaning of the stories.

Two of my favorites were “Biker’s Requiem” and “Ynez at the Roller Dome Disco.”  In “Biker’s Requiem,” Biffs parents could not understand the lifestyle he had chosen- they expected so much more from him. Biff was a free spirit and felt completely alive when he rode his bike. However, that free life ended up killing him. Biker’s are dedicated to their friends and will go out of their way to help in any way they can- including going to the funeral of their friend Biff. Much to the town’s surprise, several bikers came roaring into town causing stares and gasps. Biffs parents didn’t even know how to act or what to say.  In a way, they blamed the biker’s for killing their son, yet they also knew Biff was their family. This is a common factor in our world today when we don’t understand others, we tend to fear them.

“Ynez at the Roller Dome Disco” is a wonderful story of a young boy who has a crush on a giant of a woman who shows him some attention. He is flattered and thinks they have a “thing going.” Much to his disappointment, his crush finds a man who sweeps her off her feet and they plan to get married.  Toddie had come to the roller rink to help his Uncle Henry and Aunt Nan who worked there. He was amazed at the crowd, noise and interesting characters. Each night was a different crowd and Ynez never let anyone disrupt any skating with their shenanigans.  This is a wonderful story of first love and heartbreak.

“Something Hidden: Stories” by Elaine Margolis is easy to read and will remind readers of many first experiences in their life that may or may not have been perfect.

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