Comment from Mystic Angel 7777

Excellent

This meets the contest requirements beautifully. I liked that you chose to tell a true story rather than fiction as it made the reading that much more enjoyable. I wish you all the best in the voting and thank you very much for sharing it.

 Comment Written 04-Jan-2017

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reply by the author on 04-Jan-2017

I just had to write this story as it was so sharply etched in my mind. I am glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for your kind review.

reply by Mystic Angel 7777 on 04-Jan-2017

I still cannot get over the fact that your Dad thought walking amongst wild animals was safer than the risky brakes LOL - thank goodness your Mom was thinking.

Comment from Winslow

Exceptional

Dear Persevere,

I liked reading this childhood memory. Growing up you had great chances to observe wildlife. It is a good thing your dad erred on the side of caution. (LOL)

Happy New Year,

Winslow

 Comment Written 28-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 29-Dec-2016

Dear Winslow
Your six star rating is like a late Christmas present! Thank you so very much.
Having lived in Africa for 75 years I have many a story to tell of wild life.
May all your dreams come true in 2017

Comment from William Ross

Excellent

Very good, based on a true story, the brakes going out is always a scary situation. Nicely done on this, good luck and have a wonderful day.

 Comment Written 28-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 28-Dec-2016

Thank you ,William, for your encouraging review and good wishes. My husband and I have had a lovely , lazy day. As this year draws to a close may 2017 be a good year for you.

Comment from Heidi M

Excellent

What a scary time for your family. I don't suppose there is ever a good time to lose your brakes, but a game preserve would not be my choice.
A space is needed between 'of' and 'springbuck'. A period is needed after 'safely' and 'together'.

 Comment Written 27-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 27-Dec-2016

Heidi, I so appreciate your pointing out those two faulty areas. I have made the corrections. Thank you.

Comment from Mabaker

Excellent

That though small was interesting. I guess it was a contest entry for x amount of words. You gave enough history to make a story. Well worded, pity it was small. Regards Mabaker

 Comment Written 26-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 27-Dec-2016

The shortness of the story was a result of time shortage over this busy Christmas period but thank you for your complimentary comments.

Comment from RodG

Excellent

This story has a definitely unique setting and I like how you PUT US THERE, first with the towering giraffe and later with the nimble springbuck. Good use of dialog as Dad took adopted his cautious strategy and Mom chose to stay aboard.

 Comment Written 26-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 27-Dec-2016

Thank you, RodG, for your encouraging review.

Comment from mbroyles2

Excellent

Truly a scary moment.
The father seemed very calm.
I would have been panic stricken.
Well written.
Good luck in the contest
Michael

 Comment Written 26-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 26-Dec-2016

I think my father was panic stricken but it wouldn't have helped to get us kids upset. Bear in mind that there were no cell phones in those days so help could not be summoned. Thank you for taking the trouble to read my story and wishing me luck.

Comment from c_lucas

Excellent

Several years ago, I experience break failure in the rolling hills of the Sonoran Desert. It was an interesting twenty mile ride to the nearest service station.

 Comment Written 26-Dec-2016

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reply by the author on 26-Dec-2016

Your experience sounds similar but maybe with the exclusion of wild animals. Thank you for taking the trouble to review my story.