The Engine Driver — Tracy Marchini

Sixteen-year-old Brig has never been allowed to hear a sad song in her entire life.



Like everyone else in her community, the personal Playlist Treatment Plan that plays in her head is designed to control her emotions - from when she's happy or sad, to when she falls in love. But for Brig, who suffers from depression, a song in a minor key will never be played.



When her friend, Annaby, is chosen to go to Musician's School and is given a Permit to Carry a musical instrument, Brig knows that she has just this one chance to hear a sad song, a love song â€" or a song that matches what her depression feels like, instead of what her feelings should be.



The Engine Driver is a YA dystopian short story of 21 pages. Also includes a sample of Don't Haunt This Place.