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DIRECTORY
539 Best Short Story Ideas for Authors in 2026
Showing 539 short story ideas curated by Reedsy.
Where do you see the future of technology heading? Write an essay explaining why.
A group of kids get an invite to a costume party in the neighborhood… but when they arrive, the monsters aren't costumes. They're real.
Write about the best day of your life.
You're the principal for the day! Write a story about what you would do with these newfound responsibilities.
"Savor this sunset, folks. It might be the last one we ever see."
Write a love poem inspired by a recently received text message.
Write about the dream that you've held onto for the longest.
You meet someone who's different from you. Write a story about how you become friends.
You've just lost something important. Write a story about finding it — or learning to cope with its loss.
A comedian bombs every time every time they get up on stage.
Two people are playing chess. One person can read minds, the other person can see the future.
Write a retelling of a fairy tale — from the perspective of a child.
A child was stolen, and a straw doll left in their place.
By the time this party is finished, three people's lives will be changed forever.
Set your story at a disastrous gift exchange.
Rewrite a famous romantic scene from the perspective of a bystander who has no idea what is going on.
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