At least peripherally, everyone is aware of the log structure on Capitol Boulevard. The Cabin is a staple of the writing community and has been in operation since 1996, inspiring the love of reading, writing and discourse throughout Idaho.

This year, it published an anthology of stories from local authors. The entries were 1,000 words or less about a special room in the writer’s life. Titled “Rooms. Writers in the Attic,” it features 29 of the best entries.

The narratives include the process of recovering from a son’s death, bygone childhood dreams, a refugee longing for his lost country, and life in a maximum security prison. The stories are sometimes stark; most leave you asking questions and wanting to know more.

Michael Philley’s “The Congo Room” is a perfect snapshot of a refugee’s emotional assimilation to America. He deftly weaves glimpses of his war-shattered homeland with the anxiety he battles adjusting to his new country’s bewildering customs. He opened an extremely enlightening peephole into a life ripped apart by war.

“Waiting Rooms” by William Ferree will cause chuckles. If you have more than one child you know the urgency of the first visit with your child to an emergency room, but how subsequent visits are reduced to, “OK, I guess we should go. Let me get my keys. Let me set the TiVo.”

The publication is more than simply a book. The arts exist to encourage people with dreams. Vincent Van Gogh said, “I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it.” Future writers, artists, and dancers need a venue in which to learn their craft. By purchasing the book you will do much to fuel their determination to continue.

The book will be officially released on Dec. 15 but is available now at www.thecabinidaho.org.

My rating: Should read.