This is a short story, loosely based on science, but fiction nonetheless – for readers 13 and older. Think of it as "PG-13" rated.

Sometimes it's the most ordinary, common things in nature that we should be the most worried about. "The Clearing" is a short story written in the form of emails between a concerned father and his son who is away on a camping trip – and whose life may be in danger. It's also a parable for how easily the technology of our times can sell something that isn't really true.

It's a quick read that, for younger readers in particular, will stimulate their imagination and leave wanting to read more – which is almost always a good thing.

Is it scary? Sure, but not overly so and without any blood or human-driven violence. No guns. No knives or other weapons. More to the point, it's thoughtful and will be hard to forget in a good way.