'Fiction in a Nutshell'

Several weeks ago we asked our readers (those with an active imagination and a knack for writing) to put their creative juices to work in The Moorpark Acorn's newest contest, "Fiction in a Nutshell." The response was gratifying, as more than 20 entries were submitted. The stories, limited to 100 words, covered a wide range of topics: science fiction, romance, comedy and adventure. Entries were judged on writing style, creativity and story line. The first-place winners will each receive a $50 prize. To all the contestants we say "thank you."

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Jasmine Sankaran is a freshman at Moorpark High School. She enjoys swimming, drama, and writing. Sankaran was inspired to write this story because she enjoys the opportunity stories that present reality in juxtaposition to simplicity. She thanks her family, her friends and the Moorpark Acorn for having this contest, and especially her brother for being her personal editor.

Amul Pandya, 26, grew up in Moorpark and graduated from Moorpark High School in 1999. He attended Cal State Northridge where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science and now works at Kavlico in Moorpark in the document control department. He likes to write and always tries to inject some creativity even when sending e-mail messages, he said. Pandya participated in the Moorpark Acorn's fiction contest because enjoys challenges. Writing a creative story that has substance is not an easy task when it's within 100 words, he said. "It means a lot to me that the Acorn liked my story."

When he's not working or writing, Pandya likes to spend time with his friends. He also enjoys traveling and keeping up with the news, he said, as he was returning from a 12-day trip to Alaska with his family.

His sister Amisha also participated in the Moorpark Acorn fiction contest.

The Moorpark Acorn would like to thank all readers who participated in our inaugural Fiction Contest