Sizzling stories kept readers entertained over the summer on www.GDNlife.com – Bahrain’s very own social media platform – and it proved lucky for four literary talents.

The adult winners of the short story contests for August and September were Alk Tikoo and Senorita Joseph who both pick up BD25 and the Under 18 accolades and cinema ticket prizes went to Tanisha Biswas and Samiya Ahamed

The Day The Earth Stood Still by former Indian School Bahrain student Ms Tikoo has attracted 8,600 views already.

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It impressed judge Rohini Sunderam, from Bahrain Writers Circle, who said: “It keeps the interest going and is a good exercise in world creation.”

Delighted Ms Tikoo, who has lived in Um Al Hassam with her family for 18 years, said: “Thank you so much to the entire team for creating a platform for all the budding writers and encouraging them.

“I’m extremely elated and want to express my gratitude to the organisers who gave us such a magnificent platform to showcase our talents and put our thoughts into words and portray our ideas in a significant manner.

“I would also like to thank my parents who have always encouraged me to write and have always supported me.”

The talented 23-year-old is a cut above the rest in more ways than one. She is currently studying for an MBBS (Bachelor of medicine, bachelor of surgery) in Karnataka at the SDM Medical College, Dharwad, and will shortly become a fully-qualified doctor.

Incidentally, Ms Joseph, originally from the Indian state of Kerala, who will be turning 21 this month, is also a medical student and currently resides in Riffa with her family.

Her late August entry Forever In Bloom has attracted 2,400 views and judge Rohini described it as ‘emotional and well written’ and she particularly enjoyed the ‘surprise ending’.

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“I came to this beautiful country, when I was about a year old, as my dad works here,” explained Ms Joseph. “Ever since, Bahrain has been home to me.

“This island is very precious and close to my heart. It is surrounded by love, laughter and art – everywhere. Bahrain is full of exciting opportunities, for anyone who wishes to make their dreams come true!

“I thank Almighty God and my beloved family and friends, for the immense love and support. I was delighted to receive the news that I had won. I extend my sincere gratitude to GDNLife for helping me share my work with people all over the world, in such a time as this.”

Prolific writer Tanisha Biswas, who took June’s U18 prize for her entry Our Weakness did it again with The Last Night Of Sarah and was described as ‘an Agatha Christie in the making!’ by judge Chris Fenton, head teacher of the British Primary Department at Al Noor International School.

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“I was gripped from beginning to end. Very well done,” he added.

The 13-year-old Bangladeshi expatriate, who lives with her parents in Tubli, said: “I feel glad, motivated, and very grateful.

“Thank you GDNlife for giving me the opportunity for publishing my short stories and selecting me as a winner.”

Bangladeshi brilliance shone through again with A Father’s Love by fellow expatriate Samiya Ahamed.

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The 14-year-old lives with her family in Isa Town and was born and raised in Bahrain and her short story has attracted a staggering 11,200-plus views so far.

Judge Chris was impressed too. “The twist in the tale was unexpected but gave this short story a punch!” he said. “Great work!”

“Thank you so much,” a delighted Samiya said. “I’m very excited and happy because a lot of people have been able to read my story. I feel encouraged and motivated to write more.”

You can check out July’s winning entries by clicking here.

October 2021 entries are invited so get writing today! Register, choose an image, create a title, paste and copy your words in text, and submit to share your work on www.gdnlife.com

Ensure you state which category you are entering – Adult or U18.

Our panel of judges will also decide on who should walk away with the annual GDNLife Short Story of the Year prize trophies in both categories after the competition’s second anniversary in March 2022.

The winner of the GDNLife People’s Choice Award – the short story that has received the most views and likes – will also be announced.

• Keen writers of all ages are being offered the chance to publish their work on Bahrain’s popular social media platform for a monthly prize. As a result of the contest’s success there is now a special exclusive Short Story section on www.gdnlife.com for visitors to enjoy.