Have a favorite Very Short Novel ?
I’d appreciate knowing your preference.
So far, the only evidence I have is how many hits a page gets, and that’s more of a referendum on the title than the story.
Hundreds of visitors come here every day, more than half of them directed to this page by searches for “novel” or “short novel.” Others come looking for “short story,” “very short story,” or “flash fiction.” Only a few actually search for “very short novel.” Yes, this paragraph is mostly an experiment to see if I can affect the search results.
Willing to share your opinion?
Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page and drop me a comment when you get there.
And, whether or not you leave a comment, thank you for visiting.
Very Short Novels 
36 comments
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December 8, 2006 at 10:45 am
davidbdale
Personally, I’ve always thought
•Light the Stars
was the most emotionally satisfying piece.
December 15, 2006 at 11:29 am
caveblogem
It would be much easier to go back and find the ones I didn’t like; there are so few of those. But I wouldn’t do this to a fellow writer unless expressly asked. I will try to carve out some time to find my favorites, though, ASAP.
December 15, 2006 at 11:35 am
caveblogem
O.K., found two that stuck in my head more than some of the others:
•New World Order
•Similar Ducks
You know it could be that these things are like poems (are like poems are to me, I should say). Sometimes I “get” a poem after reading it. Most of the time, it takes me quite a while. So my opinion of peoples’ work can change substantially over time.
Thank you, caveblogem. I hope this helps others as much as it helps me.
–David
December 23, 2006 at 1:30 pm
caveblogem
Happy Holidays, david.
I’m wondering if the fact that you reserve your posts for the short novels, without any other type of post, is keeping others from noticing your plea for input on peoples’ favorites. If so, it is a testament to your site, I think, that people are very focused on the stories and do not let their eyes drift to other parts of your site.
Caveblogem, that is generous on so many levels. Happy Holidays to you, too. For my part, I know which stories are best; I just thought it might help others to be pointed toward someone else’s favorites.
–David
December 23, 2006 at 10:08 pm
mshahin
This is a bit hard, David, since many of your stories are my favorites. But I went back to check up on some of the stories to see which ones had the most power and I think I found three, although it was a really close race:
•Pity
•The Question
•New World Order
Terrific stories that I recommend to everyone.
mshahin, so wonderful to see you back in the blogs. You are a generous soul even to offer a suggestion. I love your choices and wish you a beautiful new year.
–David
January 4, 2007 at 12:29 pm
davidbdale
This just in from caveblogem regarding
• The Dive
I have a new favorite, david. Just pencil in my change at your Reader’s Choice page, would you?
“But the District Attorney uses bigger paper . . .”
Some great lines, great imagery, great.
January 26, 2007 at 4:36 pm
extrapolater
I liked Kibble For The Soul. I like the bit about dogs hedging their bets. That is so dog, man.
I’m with you, extrapolator. Anybody who maintains dogs give love unconditionally isn’t paying attention.
–David
January 27, 2007 at 5:45 pm
extrapolater
I guess in that case, they DO love unconditionally – one of the conditions they eschew is identity of the person they are idolizing.
January 30, 2007 at 11:41 am
AAA Copywriter
I really appreciated Resistance. It reminds me a bit of Robert Sheley’s stuff…
Alex
By the way, I found the time to enjoy reading your stuff: I simply take a break! 😉
Thanks, Alex! If you take 50 or 60 breaks today, you can finish off my entire ouevre! Now to go find some Robert Sheley! Appreciate the recommendation.
–David
Sorry David, It was a typo (I just can ‘t get rid of ’em)… I ment Robert Sheckley. You know, about taking 50/60 breaks a day, it isn’t that bad an idea, if you start payng my bills! 🙂
Alex
February 6, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Pankaj Rathod
Hi DBD,
You have such great talent why dont you write on social issues which can be helpful to the mass and also enlighten them.
Thanks for that, Pankaj. To enlighten, though, I’m afraid I’d have to actually know something.
–David
March 5, 2007 at 7:12 pm
Polli
I adore all your work but especially “A Very Good Picture”.
Wow. Thank you Polli! That’s a new Reader’s Favorite. Can’t thank you enough for taking the time to cast your “vote”. Best of luck launching your new site!
–David
April 22, 2007 at 4:29 pm
Mark Simmons
I can’t give you a favourite because I haven’t read them all, but I have subscribed by rss and I look forward to reading more. keep it up.
Thanks, Mark. For some reason, I had to retrieve your comment from Spam, but I found it and appreciate it.
–David
June 19, 2007 at 10:42 pm
Denise
I found your site today through Blog Catalog and read Lucid Dreams. Loved it. I love flash fiction, love reading and writing it. I have bookmarked your site and plan to read many more of your stories. Great blog!
Thank you, Denise. Welcome aboard!
–David
June 26, 2007 at 4:18 pm
David Schleicher
In terms of a creating a perfect little scene that a reader can truly relate to and where there is no room for multiple interpretations, I vote for:
“Love at One Car’s Length”
“The Hero”
Those two are perfect examples of the form–true mini-masterpieces of flash fiction.
On the other hand, I recall:
“Dinner at Emil’s”
being especially vivid and textural, almost like I could touch and taste the story…so that gets my vote for boldness and originality.
You are too kind, David. That’s a beautiful list, and the first to categorize!
–David
September 27, 2007 at 4:02 am
nia
This is my second visit, I love your writing, it is so emotionally charged, succinct, explicit, provocative, a real feast. thank you so much for the escape, I love everything I have read, every one a favourite.
I’m delighted to hear it, Nia. Welcome to Very Short Novels.
–David.
November 2, 2007 at 11:01 am
Anonymous
David-
After meeting you on the train I checked out your novel site. It IS very novel. I’ve read only a couple of the stories so far, and will be allowing myself, from now on, to read one a day….kind of like rationing dessert. Too much of a good thing, you know!
Lynn
Thank you, Lynn. That’s a good pace. I only wish I could produce one every day so that you’d never have to go without. Welcome to Very Short Novels!
–David
December 22, 2007 at 5:04 pm
anhinga
Quick Recovery
is my favorite for today because I just read it. The unrecognized tragedy from a man who steps over pain is brilliant. Of course, I may have the meaning all wrong because you nuance so much we can make of it what we will at times. You are really quite a talent. Have you tried publishing these novels?
Thanks, anhinga. I used to try to publish them in the way I think you mean, but this way is better.
–David
January 11, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Tomas
Wow,
Your posts are the pictures that talks.
I smell them and thank you for a sip of fresh air amidst the street cries.
Your writing urges to awake and to open the eyes.
Thank you
Your pictures are worth 299 words.
Thank you Tomas.
–David
January 24, 2008 at 10:45 am
Litlove
I have several from recent months that I’d like to flag up as special favourites: Heart is Killing, Overdue Books (which you know I thought was a sparkling VSN) and How You Will Live Your Life were all you on top form, David. But I’d also like to say that I have derived great pleasure from everything you have ever written. I treasure all the stories you have told.
Thank you, my dearest Litlove. I cherish your comments, this one in particular.
–David
March 23, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Chris
Great site. I just found it and I can’t wait to dive in. You can really pack some great stories into those 299 words. What a talent.
I haven’t gotten involved enough to pick a favorite but as soon as I do I’ll let you know.
Very kind of you, Chris. Be sure you do claim a favorite. If you don’t, I’ll be forced to track you down. Welcome to Very Short Novels!
–David
March 28, 2008 at 1:35 am
Edna
What a fun blog! I will be back when it’s not midnight and I have time to browse. After I do that maybe I’ll have a favorite. Another book mark on my list of good reads.
Why, thank you, Edna, and welcome to Very Short Novels! I look forward to your selections.
–David
April 15, 2008 at 10:39 pm
lethebashar
Just out of curiosity: Who invented the “very short novel”?
Excellent site. Thank you.
Um, insofar as they needed to be invented, that would be me. Many writers work in flash fiction lengths; it’s my particular quirk to insist on 299 words every time. Thanks for your visit and comment and welcome to Very Short Novels!
–David
April 16, 2008 at 3:22 pm
lethebashar
Because of my own obsessive personality, the “very short novel” appeals to me more than the idea of “flash fiction”. Perhaps it’s just the sound of it, or maybe the self-containment that is implied in a “novel”. . . I’m linking you to my site, you’re free to do the same.
Thank you,
Chris
Yes, it appeals to me more, too. Thanks, Chris.
–David
May 8, 2008 at 5:51 am
Anonymous
I’m not a writer but I like to read. I haven’t read past the first few but oh my, “Have You Seen This Child” has made such an impact upon me. How utterly haunting.
I need to read more of you!
I don’t know who you are, Anonymous, but you are welcome any time. Thank you very much.
–David
July 9, 2008 at 9:52 pm
damyantig
I have just stumbled upon your site, and I am so glad I did. I like what I have read so far, but to decide my faves, I have to come back and read again at leisure. So I am linking to you, so I can read All your stuff:).
http://damyantiwrites.wordpress.com
Then by all means come back and read again at leisure. Thank you so much for your comment and welcome to Very Short Novels.
–David
August 9, 2008 at 6:42 pm
Casey Quinn
It amazes me the number of stories you are able to produce with such quality. Amazing. Keep up the great writing!
You make me very happy, Casey. Thank you, and welcome to Very Short Novels.
–David
December 15, 2008 at 6:07 am
utopianfragments
i love this idea, 299 words to make up a story. minimalism doesn’t get better as in your writing, it is my first look at your site. sorry i cannot say yet which one i like but i can say, those which i have read so far are beautifully put down, telling those stories.
i have added you to my “like to visit” list. and will surely come back soon to read more.
blessings
Very kind of you, utopianfragments! Thank you so much, and welcome to Very Short Novels.
February 20, 2009 at 7:24 am
litlove
There. And I was afraid you wouldn’t answer. I wish I had a solution for us, my friend. But you should know you are never far from my thoughts.
Likewise of course.
–David
January 26, 2010 at 8:07 pm
shie07
Hi David! I follow you on Twitter. Anyway, could you recommend me some novels that I could send to teenagers? I hope you could help. Thank you so much. Take care! 🙂
August 4, 2010 at 9:39 am
Jim
Hi Again David,
Just browsed through this “Favs” list from various readers. Interesting that there are so few crossovers so far. Suggests that your fans find resonance on a very personal level and possibly even find some stories more alluring than others based on what’s going on in their lives at that very moment. However I found mention of some titles I’ve yet to discover on my rounds so I’ve got some searching to do.
Fortunately, there’s a search function at the bottom of every page to guide you! I love reading through these reader comments too. There were so many at one time. Now I think I’m taken more for granted.
–David
August 22, 2010 at 9:10 am
Annelisa
Read your post about favourite novel…I must admit, each novel has something to get me thinking… Love the one about Bob I just read. I was trying to remember one from years ago. Can’t remember exactly what it was called, nor even exactly what it was about, but I remember it made my blood drain… Anything that has the power to do that in so few words has to be extremely well written and poignant!
Have you ever got any of the stories published in paper form?
Another thought I had was you could easily also post a novel on facebook each day…For all us facebook users, that would mean the novel comes up on our ‘wall’ each time you post…for me a new one would be great, as it would be there each time I signed in!! 😀
You’re so kind, Annelisa. I haven’t tried to to publish any of these novels individually. Instead, now that I’ve collected almost 299 of them, I’ll be seeking a publisher for the lot, together between covers in one volume. Think that’ll work? After that, I’ll try something different. Facebook’s certainly a potential platform.
–David
September 12, 2010 at 11:55 pm
Janny
I enjoy your novels. I actually googled “very short novel” and “shortest novel” because I want to read novels but don’t want to get bogged down in somebody else’s head/imagination. I just want a story with breadth in a short time: to just visit someone else’s head but not stay long in there or get stuck in their head.
Thanks.
September 12, 2010 at 11:57 pm
Janny
ps. I think of poetry as well as very short novels as the espresso version of writing: quick, strong, deep, and short.
September 13, 2010 at 12:07 am
Janny
OOps. I didn’t see your sposed to favorite request till now. Alas, every one is my favorite when I read it… like very good,dark chocolates… every bite is favorite. I do think about the Tunnel of Love one, which was the first that I read, the last few days.
January 12, 2013 at 4:15 pm
Emily
Hi David! I’ve been missing you with no market, so thought I’d check for new novels- Christmas, heavy heavy. Interesting because it sounded like your voice behind it, unlike many of the novels. I’ve shared your blog with folks and I’ll keep recommending it, so hopefully you’ll find some new readers! Wishing you well and see you soon again.
Thank you so much, Emily. I send people your way all the time too. Can’t wait to see you again. Happy New Year!
–David
October 8, 2016 at 12:29 pm
Preethi K Alias
I really want a short novel. Im giving my email address here.