#163: Leo Tolstoy
Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy was born on September 9th, 1828 — so happy birthday, Leo! In his novels, Tolstoy explored the intricacies and contradictions of ordinary people, as well as examining the nature of power, history, and society as a whole. In his later years, he renounced his aristocratic lifestyle to focus on a more spiritual path, promoting the idea of nonviolent resistance.
This week’s prompts pay homage to one of history's greatest writers and most interesting thinkers.
This week's prompts
Start your story with someone breaking an awkward silence at a family dinner.
Adults – 38 stories
Write about a character who is living through a major historical event — whether they know it or not.
Historical Fiction – 41 stories
Write about a character who risks everything to pursue their heart’s desires.
Romance – 19 stories
Write a story in which someone says “You'll never be content.”
Adults – 51 stories
Stories
“The Live Vivisection of Family” by Wil Montgomery
Submitted to Contest #163
“The Healing Game” by Marly Smith
Submitted to Contest #163
“Death is Only an End” by Not David
Submitted to Contest #163
“Reaching” by Gregory Wright
Submitted to Contest #163
“2022 Hours” by Laurie Roy
Submitted to Contest #163
“The Empty Table” by Bethany Garner
Submitted to Contest #163
“Curious Rescue” by Kate Winchester
Submitted to Contest #163
“Insurance against Loss” by Phoenix Long
Submitted to Contest #163
“Lemon House: Anna” by A H Nazzareno
Submitted to Contest #163
“Secret Sauce” by Jennifer Bowers
Submitted to Contest #163
“The girl in the red hat” by Skye Adkins
Submitted to Contest #163
“The Machine God Hungers” by Austin Baker
Submitted to Contest #163
“A Matter of Life or Death” by Lyric Monroe
Submitted to Contest #163
“Willy Wilks and the Boogeyman” by Matt Allen
Submitted to Contest #163
“My First Dead Body” by Ed Friedman
Submitted to Contest #163
$250
Prize money
238
Contest entries
127
Stories
Ended on 23:59 - Sep 16, 2022 EST
Won by Zack Powell 🏆
Submissions must be between 1,000 - 3,000 words and will be approved and published on Reedsy Prompts within 7 days of the contest closing.
Read the full terms & conditions or check out the FAQ if you have any questions!