Calling all teen writers in grades 9–12! Put your imagination to the test in our first-ever Spooky Story Contest.
October has arrived, and anything can happen. Using the following writing prompt, craft your own short story, whether you’re into eerie mysteries, unexpected twists, strange encounters, or something seriously spooky.
Get creative, take the story somewhere unexpected, and show us what happens next. We can’t wait to read what you come up with!
Available Prizes
Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place recipients as well as two honorable mentions. Winners will be awarded prize bundles including books, reading journals, gift cards and more!
Writing Prompt
The crunch of autumn leaves under your boots surrounds you on your journey to the quiet sanctuary of your local bookstore. As you enter, the sweet and earthy scent of the fall air is replaced by the familiar and comforting smell of paper. You’ve scanned a dozen shelves finding nothing, until a metallic shine draws your eyes upward. Resting on the highest shelf—well out of arm's reach—is an aged book bound in weathered brown leather. A gilded pattern dances across the cover, catching a lone sunbeam piercing through the dusty windows. What happens next?
Story Requirements
- Must be between 500 and 750 words
- Unpublished, original fiction
- Created between October 1 and October 25, 2026.
- Judging based on prompt, narrative structure, originality / creativity, style / quality, and adherence to the word count
How to Submit
- Complete the Teen Spooky Story Contest Form (Open in new window)
- Make sure to attach short story as a Word Document or pdf in the form –– see question 6
Submit Your Spooky Story (Open in new window)
Due Date
October 25, 11:59 p.m., PST