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539 Best Short Story Ideas for Authors in 2026
Showing 539 short story ideas curated by Reedsy.
Everyday, you sit at your window to watch a neighbor play a musical instrument. You can't hear the music, but you're transfixed by the musician's expression.
Instead of trying to get a man on the moon, every nation raced to be the first at the very bottom of the ocean.
You're a food critic eating the best meal of your life. You're at McDonalds.
An evil king has seized control of the land. The world's only hope? An even eviller witch who has the powers to stop him.
Set your story at a disastrous gift exchange.
Write about the last nightmare you had.
You have to let go of something you treasure.
There is a fountain that truly does grant wishes to those who throw coins in it.
"I love you," you said. Before you could hear a response, your phone died.
You find a treasure map.
You discover a secret family member you never knew existed.
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