Just Around the Corner

Story starter: Develop a story based on this sentence.

The cool night breeze tugged at her hair as she slipped around the corner into the shadows.

Oh My Aching...

Ever go to a theme park and walk around all day in the heat?

How about lifting a box that's too heavy, or a wet dog that struggles and jerks you around as it slips from your arms?

Maybe it's a weather pattern that spurs a sinus headache.

Pick a body part from the waist up and one from the waist down. Now add a pain and write two short scenes. Remember to show the pain not just tell it.

Boxes in the Attic

While in the moving process, I came across boxes I had moved 17 years ago. I didn't have a clue what was in them until I opened each one. Place your character in an attic where they find a box. When they open what do they find? How does it change their life?

Haste Makes Waste

Haste makes waste, a stitch in time saves nine and other such sayings originated somewhere for a reason. Really they make sense. Choose one of these familiar sayings and develop a story line that teaches one such moral. Make up one of your own or use one of the old standbys.

Possible ideas:

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

Don't count your eggs before they're hatched

A penny saved is a penny earned

Haste makes waste

A stitch in time saves nine

What Happens Next

You've been short with your spouse and in a frenzy getting the house ready for dinner guests. Why does the time run out before the things to do? The doorbell rings, and you slip your shirt over your head before you whip the door open. You force a smile but not for long--build a scene based on this bit of information.

Cartoon Character

Cartoon characters' actions and reactions are exaggerated for effect. Watch a cartoon and follow a cartoon character through a scene. Jot down actions and reactions as you see them. Develop your favorite into a scene.

In the News

Some days the news can seem stranger than fiction. Last night I heard a sad story about a family pet being killed by a coyote. The owner of the pet is funneling her grief to make a law that if a dangerous animal is in an area that SOMEONE must let the residents know.

Find an unusual news clip and use a few of the details to write your own story.

Stinky Socks

Sense of smell is one often overlooked when writing. For practice and a few laughts, develop a scene around a pair of stinky socks.

Describe the Sky

Describe this sky in one sentence and use it in a paragraph.

Tee Shirt

People express themselves by what they wear. Schools make rules and establish dress codes to control the environment while adults display sayings and photos. Dress your character in a tee shirt with detail and make it part of the story.