A Most Decrepit Ferry and the Magic of Chiku Shan
As re-told in Rarrko’s Celebration Speech
An Original Story by Appaloosa Radio
From the continuing City of 4000 Spies Series
Representing his father, the Nineteenth Great Nobleman of Sassko, Noble Son Dusko Rarrko has been asked to re-tell the exciting adventure story of the escape of the Chiku Shan people from the tyranny of the brutal Nata-Vavra. The escape was aboard a decrepit ferry craft that was captained by a former smuggler, M N P Farfalla Cronbo-guuch, Falla’ as he was always called. The escape would not have been possible without the active intervention of the Ukimonogakari warrior monks and their special magic of silence.
A heroic escape from wicked oppression. An escape using the most unexpected means.
The speech highlights a day of celebration and remembrance for the Chiku Shan people of Ruch-858.
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This story was inspired by reading Sid Fleischman’s 1954 novel, Blood Alley which tells of a small Chinese village escaping from China’s Peoples Liberation Army by stealing a flat-bottom, wood-burning paddle-wheeler. Of course, the present story is a work of original fiction. Only three elements were retained from the earlier novel: the manner of Falla’s escape from prison, the name “Chiku Shan,” and the principal villain “Feng.”
Sid Fleishman was a very prolific author who wrote both novels and screenplays, but who is best known today for his many award-winning children's books.
