SHORT STORIES

Here are two more 50 word stories.

THE FAIRY

Tinkerbell had just been given her wings. Her first day as a fairy. She was going to make everyone proud. She saw him. A big ogre. Sitting beside the river looking sad. She'd land on his arm and cheer him up with a wish. A smooth landing.

Swat!

"Bloody mosquitos".

SCARED

In his tattered coat he looked across the farm at the golden corn. Finally, a good year. Then they came. A black cloud. Crows. He'd get rid of them before they caused havoc. He waved his outstretched hands. One landed on his shoulder and pecked the straw from his head.

50 WORD STORIES

There is a competition somewhere for writing stories of exactly 50 words. I know because years ago the editor of the Narrabri newspaper, The Courier, told me there was. Like him I have been fascinated with these stories ever since. As a teacher I often set this as an exercise for students. Produce a story in 50 words. Exactly 50 words. Not a few more, nor a few less, but exactly 50 words. Its a challenging exercise (and for people who don't particularly enjoy reading, a chance to read a lot of stories) and it teaches students what are the essential elements of a good story.

Here is an example of one I wrote:


The bats were all huddled in the cave for the night. Roger arrived late and was all covered in blood, cuts and bruises.

"What happened to you" the others asked.

"See that big tree near the entrance to the cave" Roger replied

"Yes" they answered.

"Well I didn't" sighed Roger.


OK now your turn to try it. Email me a story, and at some time I'll put a couple on here: shore.rob@hotmail.com

If you want to find the competition or more stories here is one link: http://fiftywordstories.com/2009/07/20/news-official-50-word-story-contest/