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539 Best Short Story Ideas for Authors in 2026
Showing 539 short story ideas curated by Reedsy.
A character's best friend is leaving town forever, and they haven't told them that they love them yet.
Write about a wish that you once made.
Re-write Romeo and Juliet as a short story... but make it horror.
You're the principal for the day! Write a story about what you would do with these newfound responsibilities.
If a fire broke out in your home, what are the first three things that you would grab? Why?
A sleepover goes off the rails when a group of friends accidentally summons a being from another dimension.
What are you talking about, dude? I'm right here? Can't you see me?
Write about your goals at ages 5, 10, 15, and 20.
Write a story where your character is acting differently on the outside than they feel on the inside.
Five competitive students are invited to board game night. Only one can win.
Write about a time that you found out something surprising about yourself.
You head into the forest with your trusty lantern that's been enchanted to burn forever. You're looking for something.
What is the memory that you remember the most? Why?
On your commute to work, you expect to see the sun rise as usual. This time, two suns rise.
Write about a character who is confused about what a White Elephant gift exchange is, and ends up going on a search for an actual white elephant.
Money really does grow on trees and is heavily regulated by governments.
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