Ink on a Page

A Collection of Short Stories

By: Jamila Mikhail

Narrated by: Brent Harris

Written in various styles, multiple points of view and across a plethora of genres, these ten short (and some not-so-short) stories will have you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you listen. Some are intense, some are funny, some are profound, others are outright strange, but they’re all memorable in their own right.

"Forlorn Memories" follows Canadian nurse Annemarie as she falls in love with German soldier Hans during the Second World War and the catastrophic consequences of their liaison, while "Purrfect Kitty" follows a lonely man named Tim’s online quest for love and the nasty surprises that awaited him on the other side of the screen."Renegades" tells the story of a young woman who wakes up in an unknown man’s body one morning and must figure out a whole new life without letting anything show, meanwhile, "Wait" lets the listener in on intimate conversations between the elderly at a hospice when a new, younger, resident moves in.

©2023 Jamila Mikhail (P)2023 Jamila Mikhail

5 Stars

In "Ink on a Page," Jamila Mikhail weaves a tapestry of emotions through her remarkable collection of short stories that truly captures the essence of the human experience. With an impressive range of themes and characters, Mikhail invites readers into her world, where every story feels like a glimpse into a different life, filled with both the profound and the mundane.

Mikhail's prose is both lyrical and precise, effortlessly transporting readers from the bustling streets of a city teeming with life to the quiet corners of intimate reflections. Each story is a polished gem, showcasing her ability to distill complex emotions and intricate narratives into succinct yet powerful vignettes. The author’s profound understanding of the human condition is evident in the way she tackles themes such as love, loss, belonging, and identity, making her work resonate on multiple levels.

One of the standout aspects of this collection is Mikhail's rich character development. Each protagonist is rendered with depth and nuance, ensuring that readers feel a genuine connection to their struggles and triumphs. From the young woman grappling with her cultural heritage to the elderly man reflecting on a life well-lived, Mikhail's characters are both relatable and evocative. Their journeys, often underscored by moments of vulnerability and insight, linger long after the final page is turned.

Moreover, the variety of settings and storytelling techniques employed throughout the collection adds a refreshing dynamism to her writing. Whether it’s a nostalgic recollection of childhood or a contemplative exploration of the present, Mikhail's versatility keeps the reader engaged, always curious about what comes next. The inclusion of magical realism in some stories adds an enchanting layer, inviting readers to suspend their disbelief and delve into the extraordinary that often hides within the ordinary.

In "Ink on a Page," Mikhail's voice emerges as both compassionate and incisive. Her keen observations about society, relationships, and the intricate web of human connections are thoughtfully articulated, leaving readers with much to ponder. There is an authenticity in her storytelling that makes it impossible to walk away indifferent; every story invites reflection and personal connection.

In conclusion, "Ink on a Page" is a literary treasure that should not be missed. Jamila Mikhail has crafted a collection that is not only beautifully written but also deeply resonant. For anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and profound insights into life’s complexities, this collection is a must-read. It is a testament to Mikhail's extraordinary talent and a celebration of the written word's ability to capture the myriad colors of human existence.