A few months ago, Kasma SF published my flash fiction story “Nuclear Family.” At 500 words it is one of the shortest stories I’ve written, but I am very proud of how much punch it packs for its length. Several of my fellow writers whose talent I admire had incredibly nice things to say about “Nuclear Family” when it was first published and I was thrilled to share it with the world.
Recently Kasma posted their web traffic numbers and I found out that it was one of the least-read stories on their site.
It’s not that the readers didn’t like it. They didn’t click on it. This story was likely read by less people than some obscure 1000-page congress bill. I was upset. Still am. The greatest reward in writing fiction is to have people read and experience it. So I figured the best thing I can do about it is to give the story a little boost. Next time you’re in a mood for a very short (and absolutely not humorous) flash story, would you please check Nuclear Family out? And, if you like it, perhaps point it out to some other readers? You will not only be mending my fragile ego, but also discovering Kasma, which has been publishing consistently excellent stories.
Alex Shvartsman's Speculative Fiction 
I loved this story when I read it (a month or more ago), and I’m glad people are given another chance to read it.
I agree with L. Lambert Lawson. (Quite an alliterative name you have there, too, LLL. And yes, I’ve read several of your stories also. Very nice work.) I’m glad you pointed it out, and it certainly is a story people should read.
I thought it both sad and melancholy; very well told. I’m surprised it didn’t gain more readers before you pointed it out.
And while I did know about Kasma, I hadn’t been back recently due to them being closed for submissions. As a writer, sometimes I get more caught up in the, “Can I sell anything to them right now? No? Well, I’ll go back later” trap. All apologies, as if I had checked a bit sooner, I would’ve read this without prompting. (I tend to do that at the various sites that offer free stories. Just one of the perks we writers get, while checking out markets. Or so I tell myself as I greedily munch down another story or three.)
One more thing about your story — it’s not one I’ll soon forget, that’s for sure. I’m surprised a Xmas anthology hasn’t snapped it up as a reprint, as it’s not only good, it’s something I haven’t seen a whole lot of people do. (Or maybe anyone, quite like this.)
Thanks for the kind words!
Loved Alex’s story here. Check Kazka Press tomorrow for another great from from him!
You’re welcome, and I’ll be glad to check out the next story tomorrow. 🙂
But did you figure out why wasn’t it being clicked on? Maybe the title wasn’t catchy enough? Just curious… I mostly click on things based on a one liner.
Very glad I read that, though feeling a little sad now — good stuff. Hopefully lots of people will click through from your story at EDF tomorrow and see the link to “Nuclear Family” and go read it too.
Loved it – came to your site after reading ‘Those Who Can’t Do’ on the Every Day Fiction email. I think I prefer this one as it has a heck of an emotional kick for 500 words!
Loved it. Great economy of words with an ending that really does pack a punch.
Thanks for the kind words, everyone, and sorry I haven’t been responding. The last minute rush in submissions to UFO has me working extra hard to keep up.
Iulian: No definitive idea as to why the story didn’t do better initially. Could be the title I suppose. I’m just glad I was able to give it a little extra shot in the arm.
Camille: Thanks and happy fifth birthday to Every Day Fiction!
Barb: I know just what you mean.. I do believe Kasma is open to subs now (though I could be wrong, I’m, woefully behind on submitting things myself. Something I hope to take care of this month.)
Everyone else: Thank you all for your kind words!