Second, I've done some counting - yeah, numbers, bad idea - and if my calculations are right, the following is true this year:
- we have 89 different stories nominated out of 108 slots. Now that's what I call really broad coverage! I make that more than 25% of stories written this year.
- there are 40 different authors nominated across the full shortlist - that's a terrific spread, and it's a huge compliment to the talent of authors this year.
- I can see two established writers nominated for the first time this year - CONGRATULATIONS, Paul and Jill! Paul, I don't know why you're so shocked; you wrote some really terrific stories.
- no fewer than thirteen stories on the shortlist are by authors new this year - that's almost 15% of the stories on the shortlist!
CONGRATULATIONS, AnnieM, Barb, Kaylle, Richard Frantz Jr, NiteMar and SQD!