best ideas for short stories

A short story about a person who wakes up one day to find that they can understand the thoughts of animals. It could start with the main character being really confused and then gradually realizing the new ability. As they interact with different animals, they learn about the hidden world of nature and also gain a new perspective on human - animal relationships. Maybe they even try to help an animal in danger using this new - found power.

A story about a young wizard who fails all his magic exams at the academy but discovers a unique and ancient form of magic that no one else can do. He then has to prove himself to his skeptical teachers and peers. This could involve him using this new magic to save the academy from a dark force.

One idea could be a world where magic is tied to emotions. For example, when a person is extremely happy, they can create beautiful, floating lights. A young girl discovers she has an unusual ability to control negative emotions like anger and turn them into a powerful force to fight against dark creatures that thrive on despair. She has to learn to balance her emotions to use this power effectively.

A family moves into a new house. At first, everything seems normal, but then they start to notice that the toys in their children's room move on their own at night. The children also start having nightmares about a shadowy figure that stands at the end of their beds.

One idea could be a story about a cursed antique mirror. Every time someone looks into it, they see a distorted version of themselves that slowly starts to take over their body and mind. They begin to act out the evil deeds they see in the mirror reflection.

One idea could be a story about a haunted mirror. A young girl moves into an old house and discovers a large, ornate mirror in the attic. Every time she looks into it, she sees a figure that gets closer and closer each day. Eventually, the figure steps out of the mirror.

A short children story idea could involve a magical tree in a forest. The tree has the power to grant wishes to the animals that live around it. However, the animals must first prove they are worthy by performing a good deed for another creature. This story could teach kids about kindness and the value of helping others.

A story about a cursed doll. A little girl finds an old, tattered doll in a thrift store. She takes it home, and strange things start to happen. Her toys start to move on their own, and she hears whispers at night. It's revealed that the doll was once owned by a witch, and now it's bringing bad luck to the girl's family.

Here's an idea for a short horror story. A young woman moves into a new apartment. She discovers a locked room that no one in the building seems to know about. One night, she hears strange scratching noises coming from behind the locked door. When she finally manages to open it, she finds a diary that reveals the previous tenant was driven insane by a malevolent presence in that very room.

One idea is to start with a 'what if' question. For example, 'What if people could fly?'. This can lead to a whole world of possibilities. You could describe how the world would change, the new rules, and the characters' reactions. Another idea is to base your story on a real - life event but add a fictional twist. Maybe a historical event with a magical element.