I saw the contest announcement and thought this would be just right for it. It isn't a holiday but it is transgender and it is set on an island.

This is a version of the first chapter of a story I began long ago in the Carboniferous when I was just a frond. The story was intended to be perhaps 6-8 chapters but, you know, life happened. Here's how it all began.

Life on the Beach

by Penny Lane

Scott has been unexpectedly turned into a woman following an accident at the biolab where he works.

At their lakeside home, his wife Lauren tries to keep him calm and comfortable.

As they settle into normal routines, Scott soon finds that he needs to make some changes.

Penny needs someone to share an apartment. Gina meets the need. But not all is smooth sailing.

Reassignment Night has arrived, the annual event where people can be assigned new traits and lives, seemingly at random. Seventeen year old Tyler has already seen both of his parents get reassigned in the past, and wonders if this time it will be his turn

Cover art by Erin Halfelven
©2026, SammyC

Ethan Martin and his mother live a simple life in a small Southern town... with a twist: She makes dresses to pay the bills and he helps out as best he can.
 

Ethan Martin and his mother live a simple life in a small Southern town... with a twist: She makes dresses to pay the bills and he helps out as best he can.
 

Ethan Martin and his mother live a simple life in a small Southern town... with a twist: She makes dresses to pay the bills and he helps out as best he can.
 

Ethan Martin and his mother live a simple life in a small Southern town... with a twist: She makes dresses to pay the bills and he helps out as best he can.
 

“Emily” goes on a date with the scariest guy in town. How will it end?
 

Ethan Martin and his mother live a simple life in a small Southern town... with a twist: She makes dresses to pay the bills and he helps out as best he can.
 

Ethan experiences love and loss.