Short stories are brief works of prose fiction that focus on a single event, character, or theme. Typically designed to be read in one sitting, they aim to create a powerful mood or emotional impact. On this page, you'll find a range of short stories that highlight the richness and depth possible in concise storytelling.
These stories are from our long-running weekly writing contest, where writers are challenged to respond to themed prompts that inspire originality and craft. The result? A dynamic and ever-growing collection of powerful, diverse, and deeply human stories.
Key Characteristics of Short StoriesBrevity: Short stories are more concise than novels, often ranging from 1,000 to 7,000 words. They are meant to be read in one sitting.
Single focus: Short stories usually center on a single event, theme, or self-contained incident, creating a tightly focused narrative.
Limited cast: Short stories often feature a small number of characters, allowing for deeper focus on individual experiences or emotions.
Minimal backstory: There is typically little exposition — short stories jump quickly into the action or emotional core.
Unified effect: Each story is crafted to evoke a specific mood, impression, or emotional impact in the reader.
Concise narrative: The storytelling is direct and purposeful, with minimal subplots or digressions.
Who writes Reedsy’s short stories?Our stories come from writers of all backgrounds — some just starting out, others already published novelists. For over six years, our writing prompts he attracted thousands of submissions from authors eager to practice their craft, receive feedback, and become part of a supportive creative community.
Each week, new prompts spark dozens of fresh stories, and many of our contributors return again and again to sharpen their skills. A number of these writers he even gone on to publish full-length books based on their story submissions here. Whether you're a reader, a writer, or both, this archive offers a window into the evolving voices of fiction.
Discover short stories of all genres and subjectsEvery short story published on our site is inspired by unique writing prompts, and they span every genre imaginable — from romance and mystery to fantasy, horror, and literary fiction. Simply filter by genre to find the type of story you’re in the mood for.
Looking for a curated experience? Check out our literary magazine, Prompted, which features prize-winning stories polished by guest editors. It’s the perfect way to discover your next forite writer!
And if you're a writer yourself, consider entering our weekly contest. With a huge cash prize and the chance to be featured in Prompted, it’s a great way to hone your craft and share your voice with readers around the world.