I am somewhat addicted to writing prompts and challenges. I participated in Susanna Leonard Hill’s Halloweensie contest, and you can read about it here. If you enjoy writing children’s stories, I strongly recommend her contests and website.
Valentiny Contest
For this contest, Susanna Leonard Hill required: a maximum of 214 words, written for children aged 12 and under, and had to be about Valentine’s Day and superstitions.
My Idea
I remember playing with the Magic 8 Ball when I was a kid, asking questions and reading the answers. What if conversation hearts could be used the same way? What if you could shake the box and get an answer to your questions?
My Story
Candy Heart Courage (213 words)
Mom smiled. “I have a surprise for you!”
She handed me a small box of candy hearts.
“These are Magic 8 Ball Valentine’s Candy Hearts,” she said. “If you shake the box and ask a question, the hearts will give you an answer. They only work today, so have a great time!”
I packed my Valentine’s cards for my classmates and my decorated shoebox. Then I hugged my magic heart box tight to my chest and headed off to school.
I love parties, and Valentine’s Day was a great chance to make friends. Being a new kid is difficult, and I wanted to fit in.
At my desk, I whispered, “Will I make a new friend today?”
I shook the box and read the heart that came out.
YES.
“How do I do that?” I asked.
BE YOU
“Does Sophia like me? Please tell me, what does she think of me?”
QT PIE
I blushed. Now I was afraid to talk to her.
“What do I do?” I whispered.
GO 4 IT
I walked up to Sophia and offered her a Valentine.
She turned as pink as one of the candy hearts, then smiled and handed me one too.
I shook the box and showed Sophia the heart.
FRIENDS
Best Valentine’s Day ever!
Thank You!
Thank you for reading my entry to Valentiny! I hope you enjoyed it!
I had a lot of fun writing it and imagining the young boy getting up the courage to approach the little girl.
Contest Results
There are fourteen contest finalists, and voting is in progress to determine the winner! Contest finalists can be viewed here. Although I am not a finalist, these contests sharpen my writing skills and are FUN! If you aren’t already participating in writing challenges, I encourage you to give it a try!
