They also tend to have a universal appeal. These stories can be understood and enjoyed by people from different cultures and backgrounds. For instance, 'The Ransom of Red Chief' with its basic concept of the bumbling kidnappers and the unruly child can be related to by anyone who has experienced the chaos that children can bring, no matter where they are from. This universality is part of what makes these stories award - winning.
Often, they have well - developed characters in a short space. For example, in many of O. Henry's short stories, the characters are complex and their actions lead to the comical situations. Their personalities are quickly established so that the comical plot can unfold.
They often have a very strong and unique concept. For example, they can present a new perspective on a common theme. This makes them stand out among other stories.
Well, 'The Ransom of Red Chief' is also a great long - winning short comedy story. It tells the story of two kidnappers who kidnap a boy, but the boy turns out to be such a terror that the kidnappers end up paying the boy's father to take him back. The unexpected role - reversal and the boy's antics make it a hilarious read, and it has won acclaim for its comical plot.
The '2017 award winning short stories' are likely to have a high level of emotional impact. They can make readers feel a range of emotions, from joy to sadness, anger to hope. The stories are also likely to be concise yet powerful. Short stories have limited space, and these award - winning ones must be able to tell a complete and engaging story in a relatively short span. They may also have a strong sense of place, whether it's a small town, a big city, or a fictional world, which helps to ground the story and make it more immersive for the reader.
One characteristic is their strong narrative. They often have a clear and engaging plot that can draw readers in quickly. For example, many of them start with an interesting hook that makes you want to keep reading.
They often have engaging characters. For example, in 'Charlotte's Web', Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider are very memorable. They also usually have a clear moral or lesson, like in 'The Giving Tree' which teaches about selflessness. And they tend to be highly imaginative, such as 'Where the Wild Things Are' with its wild rumpus.
Well, often they have relatable characters. Teens can see themselves in the protagonists, like in 'The Fault in Our Stars' which is about two teenagers with cancer. It makes the readers feel understood.
Often, award - winning novels have strong and unique themes. For example, they might explore deep human emotions like love, loss, or identity. They also tend to have well - developed characters. Take 'Jane Eyre' as an example. The character of Jane is complex and multi - dimensional. The writing style is usually of high quality, with engaging prose.
They often have a strong, concise opening. In just a few words, they grab the reader's attention. For example, they might start with an unexpected statement or a vivid description. Also, the characters, even in such short pieces, are well - defined. Their personalities shine through quickly.
They are concise. Award - winning flash fictions can convey deep meaning in just a few words. For example, they might use vivid imagery in a short space to create a strong impression on the reader.
One benefit is exposure to high - quality writing. Award - winning short stories are recognized for their literary merit, so you can learn from the excellent use of language, character development, and plot construction. It also broadens your perspective as these stories often explore diverse themes and cultures.