Brayden Hirsch is a young teen who lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, and writes novellas and short stories with the imagination of a teen and the chutzpah of a 30+ year old. Shadow Catalyst is his first published collection of these stories which dabble in the paranormal and spiritually ambiguous along with a touch of science fiction while creating interesting characters and bizarre plot lines. This young man is far ahead of the norm for his age group, and he knows what he likes, how he likes it written, and proceeds to do just that. Steward House (http://www.braydenhirsch.com/steward-house-publishers/) saw something worth engaging and promoting and invested their small-press dollars into Brayden's work to produce this anthology titled Shadow Catalyst.
I'll state right from the start that I don't like reading short stories and that goes all the way back to my school days. And following that I'm not fond of novellas either much preferring long novels, but I met Brayden at a local writers conference when he was only 14 years old and was duly impressed. Along with a couple other friends from that conference, Brayden and I have continued our communication, and he asked if I would mind reviewing his collection. Not an invitation I would turn down from such a talented and savvy young man. So this is my brief preview of his first collection of stories titled Shadow Catalyst.
From a killer who kills by inflicting nightmares on his victims to a young woman seeing her own corpse while she's alive to a CIA agent who must save San Francisco by making a bizarre sacrifice, such is the exciting sampling and well-written fare from this young author. Provocative to read with specific locations up and down the American West Coast, this collection will tantalize those readers who don't like "easy" conflicts, typical characters, or pat endings. Quickly read with a smirk, a smile, and a head-shaking reaction to the unusual circumstances of each one's plights, Brayden proves to a reader he's well on his way to conquering the writing world. As an individual he's way ahead of the curve, intelligent, bold, and determined to create what he values. He's a well-read and viewed patron of the mystery/thriller in both books and films. All this from a kid who's yet to see 18.
For both teen readers and those adults who like an unusual collection of short stories/novellas, Shadow Catalyst will provide a visit to the unusual realm of a young writer's creations. Satisfying for its genre, Shadow Catalyst will make a good gift for those readers of all ages who enjoy the shorter forms of literature with the nuances of noir.
Way to go, Brayden. Congratulations on the beginning of what looks to be a long career.
Father, you know Brayden's heart and soul. You've given him his talent and drive. Please continue to lead him in your ways and keep him close to you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.