KINGWOOD — A short story titled, “2036” by Kingwood resident Lynn Housner recently won an award in the history category in the Next Generation Short Story Awards.
The awards program is open to writers around the world writing original short stories in English (5,000 words or less) that have not been previously published. The awards program also offers 30-plus categories and provides the opportunity to have stories considered for cash prizes, gold medals and inclusion in an annual Anthology of Winners.
“My story is an Orwellian type, an update of George Orwell’s dystopian novel ‘1984.’ It’s a fantasy story,” Housner said.
Housner said he has been writing short stories since he retired from West Virginia University.
“I was suddenly retired with not much to do,” he said.
He was a professor of physical education. He held the position of associate dean at the WVU College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (CPASS).
“I put together a helpful guide of short stories about my disability to help others who have found themselves in a similar situation. It’s called ‘Weathering Life’s Storms: My Life in a Wheelchair.’ ”
Housner has previously said he suffered a life-altering illness that placed him in a wheelchair for life with pain, paralysis and cognitive abnormalities. It also forced him into early retirement.
He said he also continues publishing academic works with other WVU colleagues.
“I presented a paper in March at the Society for Health and Physical Educators on Doctorate Standards in Kinesiology, and last fall I was presented at a world college out of East China. I did that virtually and it was about developing a healthy school.”
Kinesiology focuses on understanding human movement and physical activity. It delves into how bodies move, the impact of exercise and the principals related to anatomy biomechanics, and psychology.
“Anyway, I hope all my fellow retirees are using their time and talent to stay engaged in their communities and the world. There are so many challenges out there that need our attention.”
