The Makings of Emily Jensen

This collection features diverse stories, including romantic comedy, ghostly encounters, and dark humor, showcasing the author's wit in The Makings of Emily Jensen.

The Makings of Emily Jensen is a captivating collection of short stories and novellas penned by BAFTA-nominated comedy writer Paul A. Mendelson. Each tale explores the intricacies of relationships, identity, and the unexpected twists life can bring. The title story presents a humorous yet poignant look at a single woman in her late thirties who embarks on a quest to become a mother without the complications of romantic entanglements. However, she soon learns that the journey to parenthood is rarely straightforward, especially when it involves the need for a father figure.

In another fascinating entry, 'Better Late' delves into the supernatural, where a middle-aged man encounters the father he never knew—a young biker who tragically passed away before his son was born. This unusual ghost story challenges the notions of family and legacy, leaving readers to ponder the connections that transcend time.

The novella 'Penalty!' offers a nostalgic look back at childhood mischief, as a seventy-year-old man fondly remembers how he and his friends took poetic revenge on a notorious neighborhood figure. The collection culminates with 'SKI-ing,' a darkly comedic tale of two siblings grappling with the moral dilemmas of their wealthy but unbearable parents. As they plot a drastic course of action, the story unfolds into a tale of crime and familial bonds, showcasing Mendelson's unique blend of humor and depth throughout the Makings of Emily Jensen.