Welcome to the Jungle, Kids!: A 15-Minute 90s Midwest Nostalgia Coming-of-Age Short Story

Benny Proctor is eager to make a good impression this last week of junior high. His sleek new Oakley’s should do the trick.

This short story (~2,800 words) is about the terrors of growing up, and the bittersweet taste of love requited a little too late.

EXCERPT
Benny had never asked a girl out. He got by on his good looks. Throughout much of his junior high career, his classmates had called him "Vinnie," based upon the best friend from the TV show, Doogie Howser, M.D. Girls would comment on ...