Stella wandered the streets of Victoria, BC, cold, wet and hungry - living a life of misery. It had been many years since she adapted to street-life. On most days, Stella would rather have been dead, yet she struggled along, hidden in the wide open, taking her place within the nameless, faceless and placeless tribe of the homeless. Faced with constant hunger, Stella begged, knowing that her very existence was based on the generosity of strangers. She hung her head in sorrow and shame, rattling a single coin in a tin can and trying her best to forget the very reason she was there. Stella never spoke of her past, determined to keep her life-story a secret. Attempting to remain invisible, she pushed her trolley filled with junk, moving from alcove to park bench then back again, doing what it took in order to survive, always hoping to remain anonymous.
Homeless people were once called hobos, those who hopped the rails, often looking for day-jobs. Homelessness has become a social issue that stems from a multitude of concerns: drug addiction, illness and poverty, plus so much more. It is projected that there are tens of thousands of sick, wet, cold and hungry homeless Canadians, seeking warmth and food on any given day.
What readers are saying about Stella Who?: "The author LM Wasylciw, really brought the character of Stella to life, making you think about all the homeless people out there, and wondering what their story's are. Great reading."
"Really enjoyed Stella Who? but with Ashenee Come Home you really hit your stride. Well done. Great stories and excellent social commentary."
"Well done. A well written story. I liked the juxtaposition of Good King Wenceslas. It was less direct than the Christmas Carol but it certainly was appreciated. In general, I find the reflective quality of the work very interesting."
"Sella's character is so real and captivates the reader from beginning to end. Such a good book that hit very close to home."
