Nigerian Scam Writing Exercise

Nigerian scam writing exercise

All three of my brothers are very creative guys, and I guess I am in my way, too. But I feel like my creative writing could use some help, so I bought a book today called 642 Things to Write About. Today's exercise is this:
"You're a Nigerian e-mail scammer. Write an e-mail that will convince the recipient to send you $200." My entry follows:

Hi, this is very embarrassing for me. I can’t believe I’m to the point that I’m emailing complete strangers to ask for help, but there you have it. My name is Erin Johnstone. I’ve been living in the United States for the last three years as an exchange student, but I need to get home to France right away. Our government has contacted me today and informed me that my mother is dying in the hospital after being injured in an automobile accident. She is not expected to live more than 48 hours, so I need to get home. Please help me! I’m so scared for her, and I want the chance to say goodbye, if it comes to that. My problem is that I’ve borrowed from my roommates and my classmates, but I am still $200 short for the ticket to get home to see her. Can you please help me?

I’m so embarrassed to even be asking, but I’m desperate to see her one last time. If you can help, please email me and I will give you my information . I can also receive direct donations at the Paypal account with this email address as the account identifier.

God bless you for your compassion.