Write an extremely short self-contained story to create a lasting impression or “punch” with intense, economical prose. Focus on a single, evocative moment or conflict rather than a complex plot.

“Short stories are tiny windows into other worlds and other minds and dreams. They are journeys you can make to the far side of the universe and still be back in time for dinner.” Neil Gaiman

Flash Fiction Prompts

Choose one of the following prompts:

1. Write a post card from or to a place that does not exist.
2. Write a story about discovering a hidden room in your (or a character’s) house.
   Write a story about discovering a secret in your (or a character’s) family.
3. Write a story about making a difficult choice between two paths.
4. Write a story from the perspective of a tree.
   Write from the perspective of your pet.

Contest Requirements

• Open to Palm Beach County Public High School students grades 9 -12.
• Choose one prompt from the list.
• 500 words or fewer.
• All submitted work must be entirely original and not infringe on the copyright, trademark, or property rights of any individual or entity.
• No AI content.
• Submitted piece must be uploaded as a PDF with the word count listed at the end.
• In addition, submitted piece must be uploaded as a text document (copied and pasted into text box).
• Submission must have a title.
• Only one submission per student.
• No explicit language or graphic content. The content should be appropriate for general teen audience.
• Work must be received by April 26, 2026

All submissions will be shared on our website as well as on social media.