Menu
Write your book in Reedsy Studio. Try the beloved writing app for free today.
Win up to $250 in our weekly writing contest
Submit your short story on Reedsy Prompts.
DIRECTORY
539 Best Short Story Ideas for Authors in 2026
Showing 539 short story ideas curated by Reedsy.
You witness a total solar eclipse.
On your commute to work, you expect to see the sun rise as usual. This time, two suns rise.
Write about a story where Mondays are deleted from the universe.
You open a door, but before you can go through, someone sneaks in front of you without saying "thank you." You've had an awful day and this is the last straw.
A young child discovers a passion for baking. Write about the crazy kitchen adventures that they embark upon with their allergic-to-gluten family, one that culminates in a national baking competition.
You are part of a huge team of accountants that manages the karma of people on earth.
Set your story at a busy airport during Christmas week.
You're the director at a marketing agency. Your next project: to come up with an irresistibly catchy Christmas jingle. The only problem is that you hate Christmas.
Describe your definition of a good life.
There's someone standing on the corner of the street you live on. It's the fifth time they've been there this week.
You were reading a book quietly at a cafe when someone passed you a note.
Write a story based on an experience from your childhood... but have that experience happen to a person or group of people who are nothing like you or your family.
Write a short story inspired by your favorite song.
Write a story based on the last text you received.
"Worst. Spring. Break. EVER."
Write a story based on your very first memory.
Find the perfect editor for your next book
Over 1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.
Save your shortlist
Enter your email address to save your shortlist so that you don't lose it!
By continuing, you will also receive Reedsy's weekly publishing tips and access to our free webinars.
Check your email
We've sent over your shortlist. Thank you for using Reedsy's Short Story Ideas Directory 🙌
