I’ve said for a while that Hannah from Hannah and Other Stories is based on an actual little girl. Since before the story was published, if I remember correctly. But more recently, in social media posts and in the occasional YouTube video or convention reading, I have been saying that if someone figured out who Hannah is based on, I would name a character after them. And unlike when I write other people into my stories, this won’t be a punishment, but something to celebrate.
Yes, you’d be happy to have a character in a Rami Ungar story named after you. Won’t wonders ever cease?
Recently, some people have been getting serious in trying to figure it out. I even had someone get really close when I was at ConFusion earlier this month. And if people are going to get serious, I might as well get serious, too.
So, without further ado, I’m announcing the Hannah Challenge! If you are the first to figure out who Hannah from the short story “Hannah” in Hannah and Other Stories is based on and let me know, I will name a character after you (and you won’t be sorry for the privilege). Just download a copy of Hannah and Other Stories using any of the links below and read the story “Hannah” (and the other six stories, of course).
Then, if you don’t immediately figure it out, try to do some research. Reread the story and notice anything that might help you identify whom Hannah is based on. If you figure it out, reach out to me. Email me, comment on my posts on this blog or my social media, whatever. If you don’t slide into my DMs, find my private number, or show up at my home or work, I’ll be happy to hear your guess.
And if your guess is the correct one and no one else has gotten it right so far, you’ll be the winner! I’ll announce your name on this blog and my social media (possibly with a photo) and see about writing a story with a character named after you as soon as possible. I may even let you read a draft before it gets published.
But, of course, you need to start reading, so below are the links for getting Hannah and Other Stories. And whether or not you figure out who Hannah is based on, I hope you’ll read the rest of the book. And if you do, I hope you let me know what you think in a review or a social media post. Positive or negative, I love reader feedback, and it helps me and other readers in the long run.
That’s all for now, my Followers of Fear. I have a new story I need to outline. Until next time, good night and pleasant nightmares.

Hm, maybe Erin Caffey? (Tragic case. But I guess they all are.)
No, but nice try. Care to play again?
Um… I’ll have to think some more!
Reread the story and look for clues. You may find the answer there!
Okay, it’s got to be Pamela Smart.
Nope, but keep trying!
Michelle Carter?
I have no idea who that is, so no.
I know, I know, I know! And if this ISN’T right, you totally need to write a story about her: The jorogumo.
Already have an idea for that one. Maybe someday. But no, Hannah is not based on the jorogumo, though you did get a bit closer this time around.
Darn, I thought I had it!
Keep trying. You might get it eventually.
Merry-San!!!
Had to look that one up. No, but it’s an intriguing idea.
Amanda from the 1940s who haunts contemporary cell phones.
Okay, now you’re way off. I’ve never even heard of that one!
Throwing my hands up! I give! You won!
It’s not about me winning. And don’t give up, Priscilla. Give it a few days and read the story again. Maybe inspiration will come to you then.
Okay…
Is it the bathroom ghost?
Which one? There are a few spirits that haunt bathrooms.
Hanako-San because I think she was killed in a school bathroom, so she’s the right age.
Well, I know what I’m blogging about tomorrow. How Priscilla Bettis nearly gave up on this and then got it after some encouragement. And now I have to find a story to put her in.
Woohoo!!!! Yay! Thanks for encouraging me! I had thrown in the towel!
You’re welcome. I look forward to writing you into a story. Hopefully I find a role for you soon. And I hope you like the character who shares your name (but isn’t necessarily you).
Oh the possibilities! “Priscilla” could be a monster or a hero or a victim or a tragic character who dies on page one. This is going to be interesting!
I think I already have an idea or two. 😈