How to Write a 55 Fiction Story

Do you feel like you don't have time to write a short story, but you've always wanted to? Try writing a SHORT short story. More specifically, a 55 Fiction. This is a very popular genre of short short stories that traditionally have characters, setting, conflict, and resolutions, in only 55 words or less! These stories normally have an ironic twist at the end and are extremely entertaining.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A good pencil with an excellent eraser!
• Or, just a computer with a word processing program - preferably one that counts the words for you!

1. Read some examples of 55 Fiction stories. Check out the resources section below for links to resources online as well as books that you can purchase.

2. Develop an idea for the story. 55 Fiction stories thrive on tragedy and shocking endings. I have had really good luck using pictures for inspiration - just look through a magazine!

3. Begin writing! Make sure you follow the rules of 55 Fiction though:
   * There can be no more than 55 words in the story - BUT, the title of the story DOES NOT count.
   * The story must have a character(s), a setting, a conflict, and a resolution.

4. Lastly, have fun with it! Play around with the words you choose. And, make sure to share your story with someone! Add it to your blog or a forum that you post on. People will enjoy it.

Tips & Warnings

• I've had a lot of success using this activity to teach plot elements and diction in my classroom.

Resources

• 55 Fiction examples
• The World's Shortest Short Stories