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539 Best Short Story Ideas for Authors in 2026
Showing 539 short story ideas curated by Reedsy.
Two people share an oddly bittersweet moment as they stop to watch a beautiful sunset... at noon.
"I'd like to buy a plane ticket to your furthest destination today," you told the airline employee.
Someone told you a secret that you shouldn't know about a friend. What do you do with this information? Write a story about it.
You bump into someone while walking to the bus. They feel the bump, but can't seem to see or hear you.
Write a short story inspired by your favorite song.
In a quiet little coffee shop in a quiet little town, famous people from history stop by every so often for a drink.
"Do you have a minute?" asks the stranger who was reading beside you on a park bench.
An anxious and unsure person becomes extremely decisive.
Describe your definition of a good life.
Write a children's book about a young child who gets transported into a magical world inside of a snow globe.
You were waiting at a crosswalk when someone you didn't recognize started waving from across the street.
Write a story about a character who must confront their past.
You woke up and all seemed normal. Little did you know that before you'd even had a chance to get out of bed, you would become the subject of a prank.
Write a story about the day you are magically teleported into your favorite board game.
You discover a strange map that's been stuffed into your locker.
Think about a moment in your life that elicited very strong emotions. Write about a character going through a different experience that leads to the same emotions.
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