we have winners!
flash forward fables
the assignment: write a science fiction fable less than 1,500 words, using a flash forward element. only writers between the ages of 13 to 19 need apply.
the writers wrote and the judges judged and now the moment that you have been waiting for has arrived!
here are the six winning entries. the stories are fresh and fun in the way that can only happen when they are written from the heart. i hope you have as much fun reading them as we did.
First Place: And to Think, the Day Started So Pleasantly by Lydia Henson
Who are you?
My name is Lydia Henson and I am 16 years old.
Why do you like writing?
I love writing because I love stories! Reading them, listening to them, watching them unfold in movies, and writing gives me a way to create my own. I love bringing to life the characters and worlds that would be otherwise stuck in my head.
I’ve wanted to be an author for as long as I can remember. Since 1st grade at least.
What is your favorite sandwich?
My favorite sandwich is definitely a grilled cheese sandwich. (Especially when my mom makes them because she’s an expert!) It’s just really easy to whip up and you can never go wrong with the classics. Bonus points if eaten along side a bowl of spicy tomato soup!
Second Place: A Twisted Timeline by Cassidy Bellew
Who are you?
My name is Cassidy Bellew and I'm 17 years old.
Why do you like to write?
I've been an avid reader since I was super little which introduced me to the world of fiction. Once I started 8th grade, I started to really enjoy using my creativity in writing. For the last few years that passion has grown, and I hope one day to have my own books published!
What is your favorite sandwich?
My favorite sandwich is probably a steak and cheese with spinach, cucumbers, parmesan, and ranch. My family doesn't really eat sandwiches at home, but this is always my go to at Subway. I really like the combination of flavors, and I think adding the parmesan puts it over the top!
Third Place: No Title by Basil Baird
Who are you?
I am Basil Baird and I am thirteen years old and have been since January 19th at 6:02 pm.
Why do you like writing?
I used to not like the whole diary-writing combination- I thought you just wrote down what you did for the day and continued on with it. But man, did I love writing short stories. Today, I enjoy both- writing short stories is a fun challenge I can use to express and share my words. Journaling is a kind of soul-fuel for when I’m angry or sad or happy or who-knows what.
What is your favorite sandwich?
My favorite sandwiches vary. I enjoy Pan Bagnat, BLTs and turkey and cheese sandwiches. However, my absolute favorite one is ice cream sandwiches-no doubt about it.
Fourth Place: No Title by Autumn Notebloom
Who are you?
I’m Autumn, and I’m fourteen years old!
Why do you like writing?
I enjoy writing because it’s a fun way to express my creativity without using my wrists like I do while drawing. So, I guess I write to prevent myself from getting carpal tunnel?
What is your favorite sandwich?
My favorite sandwich is a grilled ham and cheese because ham and cheese just tastes better warmed up and covered in butter.
Fifth Place: The Last Tree by Amira Morales Palomera
Who are you?
My name is Amira (Morales Palomera) and I'm 14 years old!
Why do you like writing?
Writing is another form of art that I get to use to express my thoughts and experiences! Each word I choose paints more of a picture, and getting to share my ideas so vividly? Makes me feel like a big movie projector that's playing to a captivated audience, even when I share my work with no one. It's a medium that I cherish having.
What is your favorite sandwich?
Having to pick just one favorite sandwich might just be the hardest part of all of this. My pick would have to be a caprese sandwich, fresh mozzarella and firm tomato with a good pesto sauce. Everything just blends into a bite like fresh spring that makes me drool!
Sixth Place: Al's Fruit Garden by Naomi Payton
Who are you?
My name is Naomi Payton and I'm 16 years old but turning 17 this 4th of July!
Why do you like writing?
I've always loved writing stories ever since I was 8 years old read English little books like Amelia Bedelia and Picky and Gerald also The Pigeon. Just a little short story began to my writing history. I never really used to write them down with a pencil though. I tried them in my head and act them out to my friends and family.
I also like to thank my family. If they hadn't introduced me to those books or told me what was wrong with the stories that I write, I don't think I would have gotten this far.
What is your favorite sandwich?
My favorite Subway has shredded cheddar cheese in it and I love how the soft French bread blends with the grilled chicken and mayonnaise especially the tomatoes part. I love tomatoes too.