My goodness!
How time flies!
Can you believe we’re on the last week of our little challenge already? I’ve been having so much fun and enjoying all your creativity so much that it seems like we just started!
I want to apologize for getting a little behind with the updating and commenting. A family situation came up and I’m not having much time to work. But I promise I’ll sort it all out eventually, and I appreciate your patience in the meantime! 😊
This is the last week, so if you want to be eligible for the prize drawing (so many AMAZING prizes!!!) be sure to have all 7 of your entries posted in the comment section of the correct post (links to each week below) by Saturday June 27th at midnight! I’ll announce the randomly drawn prize winners next Monday – June 29th.
Now! Let’s jump into Week 7!
Mix ‘n’ Match Mini is a 7 week writing challenge for anyone who needs a little boost or a little encouragement to get writing. . . or maybe just a little fun during this bizarre stay-at-home spring!
You get to write your own story, enjoy and be entertained by everyone else’s stories, and get yourself in the running for some awesome prizes (please see the end of the blog post for a list of all the prize goodies!)
To be eligible for the prize drawing you must enter all 7 weeks.
For a full description of the challenge or to add your Week #1 entry, please go HERE (Week #1)
To add your Week #2 entry, please go HERE (Week #2)
To add your Week #3 entry, please go HERE (Week #3)
To add your Week #4 entry, please go HERE (Week #4)
To add your Week #5 entry, please go HERE (Week #5)
To add your Week #6 entry, please fo HERE (Week #6)
Mix ‘n’ Match Mini Writing Prompt #7 for Week of June 22:
So far we’ve played with characters, setting, and emotion (or a combination, depending on where your random choosing landed you), with nursery rhymes and point of view, with a picture prompt, fun names, and a plot point, with fairy tales taking place in a new setting, with “How To”, and with getting into the young child mindset with only/always/never statements! This week, for our final challenge, we’re going to do Summer Superheroes! 😊
Choose a superpower from Column A and an object/item from Column B and write a 100 word story for kids about a character of your choosing – boy scout, unicorn princess, sweet potato. . . – anything goes 😊 that has, or meets someone with, the super power and includes the object.
Column A – Super Powers | Column B – Objects/Items |
Time travel | Sand pail |
Invisibility | S’mores |
Mind reading | Picnic or barbecue |
Xray vision | Popsicle |
Breathe underwater | Pool float |
Supersonic speed | Goggles |
Superhuman strength | Shark or mermaid |
Elasticty | The Sun |
Flight | Camp Songs |
You can write about Lily and Ben going on a picnic and meeting up with an invisible squirrel who is making off with their peanut butter sandwiches, or a time-traveling cave cricket who resolves an inter-cabin dispute at Camp Uggahmuggah by gathering all the kids around a fire and teaching them fun camp songs, or a Super Kid with xray vision whose powers are compromised at a crucial moment by ultraviolet swim goggles. . . or anything else that inspires you!
- Stories can rhyme or not – totally up to you!
- You can go under or over 100 words if you want to – also totally up to you! – 100 is a guideline
- If you’re deeply inspired by a super power or object/item that is not on the list you can use that instead – as long as you write a story as outlined above – the purpose here is inspiration and to get you writing!
- For simplicity’s sake (and to aid skimming readers who might be interested in a particular thing) please be sure to put the super power and object/item you chose at the top of your entry along with your name and word count.
I’m not sure I’m going to have time for my little just for fun sample this week, but if I can, I’ll add it in here! 😊
Now come join the fun! Get some writing done! Encourage your kids (or students) to give it a try! Or just have a good time together reading what other folks have written!
Remember, this is the last week, so if you want to be eligible for the prize drawing be sure to have all 7 of your entries posted in the comment section of the correct post (links to each week above) by Saturday June 27th at midnight. I’ll announce the randomly drawn prize winners next Monday – June 29th.
Ready, set, WRITE! 😊
(And remember, for full details on the 7 week challenge you can check HERE)
(And if you need to motivate yourself scroll down to see all the amazing prizes you could win!!! 😊)
Check out the Week #7 stories!
Time Travel Freezing Power – Dawn Young (time travel, freezing power, popsicle)
Marty The Fly – Sue Lancaster (time travel, the sun)
Princess Supersonic Speed – Sara Ackerman (supersonic speed, popsicle)
Popsicles At Sunset – Matthew Lasley (popsicle)
Endless Freeze – Brenda Whitehead (time travel, popsicle)
Mia Flying Heart Girl – Lily Erlic (flight, hearts)
Supersonic Speed S’Mores – Jamie Bechtelheimer
Elasticity And Goggles – Ugo Anidi
When The Baby’s Allowed To Wish – Colleen Murphy (super size)
Untitled – Dot Anson (invisibility, popsicle)
Ed’s New Pair Of Sneakers – Jess Murray (superhuman speed, popsicle)
Marlene And The Fish – Patricia Nozell (breathe underwater, goggles)
The Crab And The Sun – Candice Conner (flight, the sun)
Soother – Mary Van Beuren (elasticity, electric guitar)
Limerick For Week 7 – Marty (superhuman strength, picnic)
Blaze – Rose Cappelli (invisibility, s’mores)
Untitled – Kay DiVerde (invisibility, popsicle)
The Sweet Smell Of Friendship – Jill Lambert (invisibility, s’mores)
Mind Reader – Rebecca Gardyn Levington (mind reading, goggles)
Lunch Lady – Susan Inez (elasticity, picnic)
Shark Breath – Deb Buschman (breathe underwater, shark)
Dr. Whooo – Susan Schipper (time travel, goggles)
A Melodious Picnic – Deb Sullivan (mind reading, camp songs)
X-Ray Birthday – Genevieve Petrillo (X-Ray vision, popsicle, goggles)
Saving Mermaid Arie – Cindy Boyll (breathe underwater, mermaid, goggles)
Rocks Rule – Amy Flynn (superhuman strength, pail)
Singing For His Supper – Penny Adler (elasticity, campfire songs)
Rocco Raccoon – Ashley Congdon (x-ray vision, goggles)
Fire Focus – Leslie Denkers (lights fires, a surprise, s’mores, bbq grill, popsicles)
Limerick #2 for Week 7 – Marty (supersonic speed, s’mores)
Lindy’s Flight Fright – Sarah Meade (flight)
Fish Camp Rocks – Katie Schwartz (breathe underwater, camp songs)
Dig It Up Jay – Michelle S. Kennedy (superhuman strength, sand pail, mermaid)
Untitled – Alicia Meyers Kelly (invisibility, goggles)
Untitled – Linda Schueler (time travel, popsicle)
Goggles The Supercow – Tracy(goggles)
Week 7 Limerick – Liz Kehrli (flight, the moon)
Week 7 – Ketan Ram (X-ray vision, goggles)
The Super Babysitter – Mia Geiger (elastic, super)
Pudgy The Hero – Barbara Renner (superhuman strength, the sun)
Untitled – Heather Hatch (mind reading, picnic)
Sneaky Drake – Kristy Roser Nuttall (invisibility, s’mores)
All Bread Is Created Equal – Susan Krevat (time travel, s’mores)
PRIZES & PRIZES OF ALL SHAPES AND SIZES!
When it comes time for prizes, names of all those who completed the challenge will be drawn randomly and matched with prizes drawn randomly until we run out! 😊
Please join me in thanking these very generous authors and other writing professionals for contributing their books and writing expertise as prizes by visiting their websites and blogs, considering their books and services for gift purchases, rating and/or reviewing their books on GoodReads, Amazon, B&N, or anywhere else if you like them, suggesting them for school visits, and supporting them in any other way you can dream up! 😊
For Spacious Skies by Nancy Churnin, award-winning author of so many fabulous books I don’t have space to list them all! Visit her website or Amazon Page!
Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Kirstine Erekson Call, author of THE RAINDROP WHO COULDN’T FALL (Character Publishing 2013) and the forthcoming MOOTILDA’S BAD MOOD (Little Bee Books, September 2020), COW SAYS MEOW (HMH March 2021), and COLD TURKEY (Little Brown Spring 2021)
Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Ellen Leventhal, author of DON’T EAT THE BLUEBONNETS (Spork 2017), HAYFEST: A Holiday Quest (ABCs Press 2010), and LOLA CAN’T LEAP (Spork 2018)
Picture Book Manuscript Critique from Lindsay Hanson Metcalf, author of BEATRIX POTTER, SCIENTIST (September 2020), FARMERS UNITE!: PLANTING A PROTEST FOR FAIR PRICES (Calkins Creek November 2020), and NO VOICE TOO SMALL: FOURTEEN YOUNG AMERICANS MAKING HISTORY (Charlesbridge September 2020)
Picture Book Manuscript Critique (non rhyming) from Kaye Baillie, author of BOO LOVES BOOKS (New Frontier Publishing October 2020), and MESSAGE IN A SOCK (Midnight Sun Publishing 2018)
Your choice of EITHER a Picture Book Manuscript Critique or a Virtual Visit with Keila Dawson, author of THE KING CAKE BABY (Pelican 2015), and NO VOICE TOO SMALL: FOURTEEN YOUNG AMERICANS MAKING HISTORY (Charlesbridge September 2020)
Winner’s Choice of Webinar from the amazing Alayne Kay Christian, author of picture books Butterfly Kisses, An Old Man And His Penguin, and the forthcoming The Weed That Woke Christmas and the chapter book series of Sienna The Cowgirl Fairy, and editor at Blue Whale Press! Webinar choices include: How A Picture Book Is Made, Perfecting Your Critique, Top Ten Reasons For Rejection, and How To Write Powerful First Pages Like A Pro!
15 Minute Video Chat – ask your questions about writing, research, submissions – whatever’s on your mind! – with Christy Mihaly, author of DIET FOR A CHANGING PLANET: Food for Thought(Twenty-first Century Books/Lerner 2018), HEY, HEY, HAY!
A Tale of Bales and the Machines That Make Them (Holiday House 2018) , and FREE FOR YOU AND ME: What Our First Amendment Means (Albert Whitman March 2020)
Quick Impressions on your Picture Book Manuscript from Rosie Pova, author of IF I WEREN’T WITH YOU (Spork 2017), SARAH’S SONG (Spork 2017), the forthcoming SUNDAY RAIN (Lantana Publishing March 2021) and others.
RONAN THE LIBRARIAN, (Roaring Brook Press April 2020) brand new fromfabulous author Tara Luebbe
Your Choice of EITHER A Picture Book Manuscript Critique (fiction, non-rhyming) or an Ask Anything 15 Minute Video or Phone Chat with Tara Luebbe, author of SHARK NATE-O,(Little Bee Books 2018), I AM FAMOUS ( Albert Whitman 2018), I USED TO BE FAMOUS (Albert Whitman 2019), OPERATION PHOTOBOMB (Albert Whitman 2019), and RONAN THE LIBRARIAN (Roaring Brook Press 2020) (see above)
Sherry Howard, author of Rock And Roll Woods (Spork 2018) and a series of Nonfiction Middle Grade titles for Escape Publishing (2019)
is offering 6 of her nonfiction middle grade titles which will go to 6 lucky winners!
Ann Whitford Paul, author of Writing Picture Books (being donated by Becky Scharnhorst below), the book we ALL use as our picture book bible 😊, and countless wonderful picture books, is offering signed copies of her IF ANIMALS… Series (Farrar Straus Giroux):
If Animals Went To School (2019) If Animals Kissed Good Night (2008)
If Animals Said I Love You (2017) If Animals Celebrated Christmas (2018)
If you would like to benefit from her picture book wisdom, please sign up for her newsletter HERE!
A hand lettered quote of someone’s choice from a picture book, or a quote about reading or writing that could be framed as a gift for a child’s bedroom, a writer you know and love, or an inspiration for writing in your own work space (why shouldn’t you give yourself a present?!) offered by Kristy Roser Nuttall! (Samples below – you can choose your own quote!)
Making Picture Book Magic – Self Study Class any month (x3)
Writing Picture Books by Ann Whitford Paul, donated by Becky Scharnhorst whose debut picture book P.S. Camp Wildwood Stinks will be released in Summer 2021 from Philomel!
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert donated by Becky Scharnhorst whose debut picture book P.S. Camp Wildwood Stinks will be released in Summer 2021 from Philomel!
The Nuts & Bolts Guide To Writing Picture Books by Linda Ashman (only available for Kindle) (x2)
Magnetic Poetry – Little Box of Happiness
The Story Book Knight by Helen Docherty
This Book Is Gray by Lindsay Ward
Writing Journal (x10)
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Oh, I can’t believe it’s week seven. Summer Superheroes! 😊 I’ll miss these prompts. It’s been great fun. Thanks!
Well I joined late (started about a week ago?), but knew my writing friends were having fun, and I had to join in! Thank you Susanna, have really enjoyed this! And fortunately your 100 word limit was just a suggestion’, LOL, mine keep getting longer🙄! Thank you again, for the prompts and inspiration!
You’re so creative, Susanna. I’ve loved the challenge of all your prompts and am having fun shaking up my creative juices. I’m glad you’re giving us until June 27th to post our stories. That’s probably when I will post mine. I hope your family situation will get sorted out soon.
I’m so glad you’re enjoying it, Barbara! And thank you – it’s going to take some time, but hopefully all will turn out well!
Week 7 Dawn Young TIME TRAVEL FREEZING POWER 94 words
As the child placed a warm fuzzy scarf around the Snowman’s
neck, a miracle happened. The snowman disappeared!
“Where am I?” said the Snowman to a small boy in goggles,
building a sand castle.
“You are at the beach,” said the boy. “But how did you get here?”
“My scarf must be made with time travel freezing power! I have
always wanted to visit the ocean,” said Frosty.
“Why aren’t you melting from the hot sun?” asked the boy.
Frosty just smiled pulling a snowman shaped pop cycle out of his
black hat.
Clever…Beach and a snowman!!! 🙂
Dawn, this is so inventive and cute. I’m partial to snowmen at the beach. Have a WIP with just such a storyline.
I love the images of this story. I was transferred to the beach as I was reading it. Well done!
I love that Frosty got to enjoy the summertime fun. So sweet. I hope someone makes a sand version of Frosty for him to play with. 🙂
Great work getting it written so quickly! I love the idea of a snowman at the beach.
I love how you share a reminder of winter in the midst of summer heat. Fun story!
Did you write this sweet story while you were at the beach, Dawn? I love the dual powered fuzzy scarf–time travel and freezing, too! So cool! Excellent work!
Fun! I can see this becoming a full MS!
❤️Thank you for all of the kind words.❤️
❤️Susanna, Thank you so much for this fun inspirational writing challenge. It has truly been a learning experience. Also, great job, writing friends. I have enjoyed reading your amazing work.❤️
Fun! Snowmen and the beach are a great combo.
Marty the Fly
(160 words. Time travel / the sun)
This is the story of Marty the Fly,
Who traveled through time in the blink of an eye,
Everyone Marty so happened to meet,
Would hear of the housefly’s spectacular feat:
“It’s when I reach twenty-eight miles per hour,
That’s when you will witness my super-fly power.
I disappear – FLASH – to a time long ago,
Then reappear – CRASH – and you never would know.”
But Marty the Fly found that life was the same;
Houseflies have always been far down the chain.
Whatever the year, however far back,
He’d always get hunted as somebody’s snack.
So, Marty buzzed off to the future instead,
And what he discovered will fill you with dread,
The future that Marty the Fly had unfurled,
Had robotic flies that were ruling the world.
So, Marty the Fly, he of course chose to stay,
He lived like a king for the rest of his days,
Buzzing about with his cyber-fly queen,
In the sizzling sun, Twenty-one Seventeen.
Wow! How you managed to dream this up so quickly and with such humor and rhyme and story arc, too, is beyond me 🙂
I love it. Hooray for Marty (great name btw ) the Fly!
Great rhyming elements! 🙂
Great job, Sue!
Such a clever idea. Is it a play on Back to the Future?
Thank you. Yes it is!
So good! Marty the Fly sounds like a great character for a book. Parents from tha time would love the idea.
That was a fun story! Well done!
So clever! Love the wink to Back to the Future.
Glad I’m not living in 2117, but super happy that Marty is enjoying that era. Love the fly’s point of view & time travel combination!
Love your premise, rhyme and meter, Sue! My favorite line is “Houseflies have always been far down the chain.” Also the way Marty traveled to the past and then the future. Well done!
Fantastic Sue! This was wonderful and a fun spin on “Back to the Future’s” Marty McFly!
This is so clever! I enjoyed it very much.
Susanna, Love this final challenge 🙂 Hope your family situation resolves itself happily and without undue stress. You’ve given us plenty to soldier on with here until the 27th, so take whatever time you need. Thanks for another terrific contest.
Princess Supersonic Speed (supersonic speed, popsicle)
(61 words)
Princess Supersonic Speed
nearly lost her sparkling crown
zipping all around the castle.
“You’re a princess! Please slow down!”
Always early to the ball,
waltzing at a hurried pace.
Rushing through her royal duties—
“Princess, life is not a race!”
Then one steamy summer day:
popsicles at the royal gate.
Frozen treats turned into puddles
but not before our princess ate.
❤️Cute❤️
I think your first stanza would be a great start to a picture book. Well done!
Some treats require speed to enjoy! Great job!
Princesses are an evergreen topic, Sara! Keep going with this one!
Good thing the princess was fast after all! She at least got her treat before it melted!
Popsicles at Sunset
It had been a hot summer’s day and as the sun set, my sister and I sat on our porch eating a popsicle and listened to the night come alive.
As I licked the orange liquid that dribbled down my hand, my favorite part began. The fireflies.
They bobbed and weaved on the evening breeze and my sister squealed with delight.
Then the brightest and biggest firefly I’d ever seen bobbed towards us and landed on the railing of our porch. I was surprised to see one so big and was more surprised when he began to speak.
“Did you know popsicles were invented over a hundred years ago by an 11 year old boy named Frank?”
The firefly shivered and his wings buzzed. “I should know, I was there. Well, not there on that day, it was too cold! Epsicles he called ‘em.”
“But I was there when he made them for his kids and called them Popsicles.”
I sat there and stared. I wanted to say something. I wanted to scream. But I only stared.
“Nice talking to you kid, but it’s time to go. Maybe I’ll see you in another hundred years.”
He buzzed into the night, his light flashing like a beacon, until, POOF, he was gone.
I am guessing the history is true? Very cool!
Fun facts & I’ll never look at a firefly the same again!
Of course, you made me look it up, Matthew! Great job integrating the true history of popsicles with a time-traveling firefly! Love it!
Thanks again for this challenge Susanna, so much fun!! I hope it becomes a yearly thing. 🙂
ENDLESS FREEZE (time travel, popsicle, 125 words)
by Brenda Whitehead
I have a super power.
I travel back in time!
It might be strange, but every spring
I start to turn to slime.
So every February,
(In lucky years, it’s March!),
I hop into my time machine
And zoom through Timeless Arch!
And when I reach the Depot,
(They call it Tick Tock Stop),
I wrap myself in winter white
And freeze back to a Pop!
Ahh, the lovely promise
Of winter chill ahead!
No fear of melting off my stick
And making puddles red.
So why not travel farther,
To winters long ago,
Instead of going back three months,
To see the same old snow?
Well every time I travel,
I meet up with past me’s!
Now sixty-six ice partiers
Enjoy an endless freeze!
Nice job. A fun story to read. Now I’m in the mood for a popsicle!
Fun read Brenda!
Fun!
Such a clever story & point of view!
Brenda, what a unique take you have on this prompt! Writing from a time traveling popsicle’s point of view…Wow! I love the names you included–Timeless Arch and the Depot/Tick Tock Stop. Great job!
Love this!
❤️❤️Fun way of showing an object’s POV. Great job.❤️❤️
Thanks so much, everyone! I imagine the bonus in this scenario is that a popsicle in winter is not as in danger of an untimely demise as some kid’s summer treat. 😉
In real life, Mia is my niece and she loves hearts. One day, she asked me to paint her a heart on canvas. This memory led to the story of Mia, Flying Heart Girl. Mia is full of heart always!
Mia Flying Heart Girl (Flight, Hearts) 213 words by Lily Erlic
Everyday Mia arrived in class with a heart on her shirt. She loved being flying heart girl.
She gave heart cards out to all her friends on Valentine’s Day.
“I’m having a heart birthday party too next month,” announced Mia.
“Why do you wear a heart to school every day? asked her best friend, Jeanine.
“Because, I’m flying heart girl, a superhero that gives out hearts to everyone that needs it. See, my heart has wings!”
“Can I be flying heart girl too?” asked Jeanine.
“Yes you can,” said Mia.
A few other children were curious and they asked if they could join too.
After school Mia invited Jeanine to her house. In Mia’s room there were hearts on the walls, on her bedding and a stack full of heart cards. Mia gave Janine a heart T-shirt and a heart cape.
“What do we do now?” asked Jeanine.
“We write messages on the cards,” said Mia.
“What kind?”
“Our mission is to help people smile. Let’s write things like, ‘you can do it’, or ‘way to go’ or ‘keep smiling’.
“I wonder what the class will think,” said Jeanine.
The next day everyone in the class received a flying heart with wings.
“Now, we are the flying heart class,” said Mia.
Everyone cheered.
The End.
So sweet! You’re so lucky to have a Flying Heart Girl in your life. Your story cheered me.
I’m so glad Flying Heart Girl came to your rescue! Thank you for your response.
Your superpower is creative and inventive. It was a great read too! Thank you for sharing! 🙂
This is such a sweet story, Lily. I remember it (or a version of it) from one of the contests! Given how many I read, that proves it’s memorable 😊
Thank you Susanna! You’re right. Thank you for reminding me. I looked it up and discovered I had sent it to your Valentiny Contest. 🙂
What a great Valentine story, Lily! I could see Flying Heart Girl in a graphic novel series.
Jill, what a great idea! I would love to see it as a graphic novel series as well. Perhaps I should expand on it and send it to a publisher? Thank you. All the best to you!
❤️I love ❤️s
Well then, I’m sending you a flying heart right now! From my heart to yours! 🙂

Supersonic Speed S’mores (253 words)
All my life I’d kept my supersonic speed powers well-hidden. And I’d only used my power for good.
You know, like running super-fast to take my dog outside before he peed on the carpet, or to flip our grilled cheese sandwiches before they burn, or to stop my baby brother from putting his binkie in the toilet.
But one summer, when we went camping … and Mom made s’mores.
I’d never had s’mores before. Mom gave me one.
It was so gooey, crunchy, and melty… so perfectly sweet!
“More s’mores please, Mom!”
She served up more. I gobbled them up before anybody else finished their first one.
“S’more, please!”
She stacked my plate high with them. I devoured them even faster than I did the first plate.
“S’MORE!”
“Honey, you shouldn’t have any more. You’ll get a sugar rush and then crash.”
Then I felt it- the sugar rush! My superpower booster! I was jumpier, bouncier, speedier than I ever was before!
I climbed all the trees like a supersonic squirrel! I sprinted over the mountain tops! I zipped over the lake like a Sea-Doo! I skimmed over the water back to the shore with a SPLASH!
And then I flew back to my family at the picnic table… but I was going too fast to stop!
CRASH!
Suddenly, my superspeed was zapped. I dragged my feet while I cleaned up the mess I made. And then I took a very long nap.
Turns out, s’mores are my weakness. They’re like my kryptonite.
I think s’mores are kryptonite for many of us! Fun story!
Oh gosh, my kiddos got a sugar rush from s’mores last week. I can believe they have super sonic speed too. Great story!
Ah, the famous sugar rush…followed by the equally famous crash! Oh, well. S’mores are worth it! Young readers would love this action-packed story, Jamie!
❤️Who doesn’t love s’mores? Fun concept with action galore.❤️
As a mom of two hyperactive boys, this speaks to me! Great story. Now if only I could get them to flip those grilled cheese sandwiches before they burn…
Ugo Anidi
178 words
Elasticity and Goggles
“Yuk! They’re ugly! They’re not glasses! They’re goggles!”
All the kids in Room One laughed at Nene’s new glasses.
Nene sat alone in a corner, away from the laughing kids. Miss May came into the room carrying a fish tank.
All the kids gathered around her.
“This is a blowfish” she explained. “It’s superpower is elasticity. Its tummy inflates whenever it senses danger.”
Eight pairs of surprised eyes stared at her.
“I’ll show you”
She dropped the class shark doll into the fish tank and the most incredible thing happened.
The fish started to swell and swell and swell until it was double its size, then triple its size, then it was bigger than the shark doll.
All the children screamed but Nene screamed the loudest!
“I can see inside it’s tummy! I can see its spine and all the things inside its body!” She pressed her face on the tank, her eyes wide with wonder.
“You can?! How?!” one child asked
“It’s the goggles” another shouted
And soon, everyone in Room One wanted to wear Nene’s ‘goggles’.
I fun way for Nene to turn the tables on her classmates!
What a wonderful story. I was older than Nene when I started wearing glasses, but I remember well the awkward feeling of wearing them to school for the first time.
yay for x-ray vision goggles! So happy for Nene and that her classmates learned that new doesn’t equal something to be mocked
I love the way you turned Nene’s new glasses into a super power by the end, Ugo! Great job!
Great job! I love the ending!
❤️Great story to help kids with new glasses. I think you should expand this MS.❤️
I’m so glad Nene discovered her superpower x-ray vision goggles! Love your story.
This was so fun to read; I love Nene’s goggles. I also thought it was perfect that in the end, they all wanted a pair. New respect for Nene!
I hope you and yours are well and the family situation gets better. Take care and thank you for this challenge. it helped me write even when i didn’t feel like it.
Also, i’ve been participating for a month now but i write long hand (a bad habit) and every day i plan to type up the shorts and send them in but i’ve been procrastinating (another bad habit).
However, i noted today that i have 5 days to type them all up so i’ll try to do them all now.
Thanks again 🙂
So glad you’ve been playing along and enjoying it, Ugo! Good luck with the typing 😊 And thank you for the good wishes!
So, not exactly super powers, but a star and immense size. I also did not finish this as it is already getting too long. But it is something I had thought about writing lately so it was fun to try to get a start. Thanks Susanna for permission to be silly.
WHEN THE BABY”S ALLOWED TO WISH
One cloudless night a northern light shone bright in Owen’s eyes.
He wished, as many babies do, to multiply in size.
Then Owen grew much faster than a four-month old should grow.
He burst out of his clothing as he stretched from head to toe.
His parents put him in his crib, then heard from overhead –
Crr-ash! Ka-boom! Waah! Poor Owen busted through his bed.
They called the local doctor, “You must tell us what to do!
He’s much too big to carry; he’s outgrown his diapers too!”
Thank goodness Owen crawled a bit; he moved into the hall
with bedsheets for his bottom and no clothes to wear at all.
He made it to the living room; he slept upon the floor
Until…he arms broke through the walls and feet pushed through the door.
His parents, now hysterical, appealed to 9-1-1:
“Someone has to help us; we’ve a two ton baby son!”
…….
I could imagine the illustrations! I see this as a picture book. How does it end?!
Oh Ashley I don’t know yet, but I am glad you liked it! I will see where I can take it.
Maybe even a magazine! It’s a fun read.
Thank you!
Oh my! Such vivid imagery and such a huge problem. Hope to read the ending someday – it’s a great start!
Thank you! I am glad I finally got something down on paper for this idea.
Love the energy and visuals! You really have something great here. Keep at it! We all want to see how it ends 🙂
Thanks Candice!! Me too!
Funny and delightful! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for reading!
Colleen, this is a fabulous start to a tall tale! It reminds me of Paul Bunyan! Love the onomatopoeia and your perfect rhyme and meter! Keep going!
Thanks Jill! I appreciate the encouragement!
This reminds of a book I read to my kids a bunch of times. Many several hundred. About a Big Boy growing out of his clothes and imaging what it would be like if he was as tall as the trees and could touch the sun and the moon. you have a winner here.
Haha, the imagery is great! I love this Colleen, too funny. Now I want to know what happens next!
We shall see Brenda! Thanks for reading!
What a great start to a really fun MS! I hope you will continue it and share the ending with us!!!
Thank you! I will do my best!
I really like this; I was a bit worried about what would be in a diaper for a two-ton son, I’m glad that the they didn’t have to find out! 🙂 I think this would make a great longer story!
Thank you! And, good point about that diaper.
Thank you Susanna for the fantastic prompts. This has been fun and challenging at times.
Superpower: Invisibility. Item: Popsicle (113 words)
“Where are you? ” Aaliyah said to her brother.
Cohen had superpowers. He could be invisible.
“Come and find me, ” he said.
Aaliyah tried to follow his voice, but he would move each time she got close.
Playing chasing was no fun with Cohen. How can you tag someone you can’t see?
Suddenly Aaliyah had an idea. She went inside to ask Mum something. When she walked back outside she had two Popsicles. She began to eat one, holding onto the other one tightly.
Cohen couldn’t resist. He loved Popsicles. He crept close enough to take it, but as soon as Aaliyah felt him try, she quickly touched him saying, “You’re it.”
Haha! So clever, Dot! I can just imagine that invisible little hand coming out to grab the popsicle…tricked! 😊
Quick thinking Aaliyah! This could be a fun picture book.
Ha ha! Clever girl!
Lol, I immediately imagined a dripping popsicle giving away his location. No one can resist a popsicle! Great story!
So cute, Dot! This story made me smile. Glad Aalidyah as able to get even with her brother!
❤️So cute … brother sister rivalry.❤️
Ed’s New Pair of Sneakers (superhuman speed, popsicle; 123 words, Jess Murray)
Gave him superhuman speed. His mother? Suitably impressed. But, later at the pool, no one else seemed to notice.
Ed stewed, turning his lips bright blue with a popsicle, when he noticed something adorable. A crate truck full of puppies had backed up to pool. The driver needed soft-serve.
A squirrel pelted a nut. Puppies leaped. The truck lurched. The lock broke. The latch opened. YELLLL-ELLL-ELLL-P! 27 puppies tumbled into the shallow end!
Lickity-split, Ed raced to the pool. He sailed into the water, pulled out the flailing puppies, and plopped them on a float. All before anyone could even shout, “Puppies!”
Ed, and his kicks, made the national news. And the town was so grateful he got free popsicles all summer.
(Susanna, thank you for this challenge and all of the work you put in to make it happen, including the inspiring examples:). I’ve loved getting to participate and be prompted in different story directions, and I’ve esp. appreciated getting to read my fellow challengees’ stories! So fun all around!)
So glad that Ed saved the puppies. Fun story!
You accomplished a lot in 123 words, Jess! Love the whole series of events that led Ed to his free popsicles!
So glad Ed got his 15 minutes! I’m sure he’ll do lots more good with his super-speed, especially now that he’ll be powered by popsicles! 🙂
Susanna, thank you so much for coordinating this challenge, even as you’ve been busy with deadlines & family matters (hoping everything is ok). I think your superpower is creating this wonderful writing community & stretching us to flex our writing muscles. I’ve challenged myself to be brief (all 7 are 100 words or less), but I’ve already turned an early idea into a much longer picture book manuscript. I’ll truly miss these Monday writing prompts!
Marlene and the Fish (100 words, goggles & underwater breathing)
With goggles, fins, and snorkel, Marlene swam like a fish. One day, as she followed a school of blue tangs, something shiny caught her eye. She dove and discovered a plastic bag snagged on coral and several empty soda cans with plastic straws.
“If the sea creatures eat this garbage, they’ll die!”
Marlene tugged at the bag and started collecting the garbage. But the snorkel slipped from her mouth. Marlene gasped, sputtered, but then realized she could breathe underwater without it.
Now, with goggles and fins, Marlene swims like a fish and saves them from garbage on the seabed.
Yay for Marlene to see a problem in her community and fix it! And kudos to you for turning a challenge into a manuscript!
I really like the focus on cleaning plastic from the ocean–a perfect job for Marlene’s newly discovered super power! Nice work!
Love the superpower reveal! Great story!
Go, Marlene! Great job telling a full story in 100 words!
I can’t believe our challenge is at an end! Thank you, Susanna, for all the energy you pour into the writing community!
Flight, The Sun, 216 word count
The Crab and the Sun
Once upon a half-truth, crabs came in every sort of color you can think up.
They came in shades of green like the sky after a summer thunderstorm, white like moon pearls, polka-dot spots like a shadow-dappled forest floor.
One crab the color of the deepest sea, a blue so rich it made you want to sink your teeth into it, was not content to live on the bottom. He didn’t want to live as a scavenger. He wanted to soar. Not through thermoclines like whales or waves like dolphins, but through the air. He wanted to touch the Sun.
“Crabs need their claws on the sand,” the old crabs warned him. “The dead will pile up and pollute our water if we aren’t there to eat it.”
Our crab swiveled his eye stalks and set to work building armor for his body, fan coral for his wing-claws.
He waited for a terrible storm that gnashed rocks into rubble and launched himself into the heavens. But his armor-shell was no match for the heat of the Sun and our blue crab turned the color of a fiery sunset.
This is why crabs change colors now when we put them in a pot to boil. The Sun’s mark absorbs blue light and turns red, orange or yellow.
What a lovely porquoi story, Candice! You language is so visual! An illustrator would love to work on this!
This is wonderful. I really enjoyed your descriptions and as well as the ‘legend’ quality of it. Well done!
Dear Susanna, this is my favorite prompt of all. To give children superpowers in this time of covid, it’s brilliant and hopeful. Thank you, for motivating and inspiring me to take a crack at writing for children. These past 7 weeks have been a blast.
Soother
Sorry, this is long – it’s the story’s fault.
Super Power: Elasticity/Electric Guitar
866 Words
By Mary van Beuren
Once upon a time, not so long ago, in a small village outside a big city, a young girl was given a teal-blue electric guitar. Her parents took turns driving her to lessons after school. Olivia worked hard and practiced often. She learned new chords, riffs and scales and soon, she was quite adept. Her fingers could stretch and make the most difficult chords ring loud and clear. It was as if by magic. Olivia was ten years old when she discovered that she had the gift of Elasticity. This was her invisible super power.
Olivia seldom put her guitar down, if you saw Olivia, you saw that teal-blue guitar. Every Friday, after school, her family went to the skatepark. Her mom, her dad, and her two brothers, Zephyr, who was nine and annoying and Atticus who was six months old and the cutest baby on earth.
Olivia would put her guitar in its case while she and her mom took turns holding Atticus. Olivia smelled something stinky, lifted Atticus up to her nose and said, “P-U, Atticus!” and quickly handed the baby back to her mom. They couldn’t find the diaper bag. It was not in the stroller, it was not on the picnic table, it was not anywhere.
Olivia realized it had been left beside the car and thought, “I wonder if I can…” She focused on her arm, and in an instant, her arm grew long, and longer still until she was able to reach all the way across the park and into the parking lot. She grabbed the diaper bag and swiftly set it beside her mom.
“Oh, there it is!” said her mom, “I need another pair of arms!”
Gotcha covered, Olivia thought, surprised by this new way to use her superpower. She went back to playing her guitar, even though she couldn’t plug it in, and only the people close by could hear. As the music softly rang, the people listening became more friendly and laughed easier.
Her dad and her brother practiced dropping into half-pipes and circling bowls. Both of them fell off their skateboards, a lot.
Olivia looked up from her guitar to see her brother about to tip over, and she grew her arm long and steadied the board. Zephyr soared down one side of the half-pipe and then back up, the other, jumped off the board and raised his arms high in triumph.
Zephyr yelled over to Olivia, “Whew, I thought I was a goner on that one!”
Olivia, both hands back on her teal-blue guitar, yelled back, “Yeah, I did too!”
And then she saw her dad skating along the grind rail, one of his trucks was crooked. Even though he was wearing a helmet and pads, she knew if he fell, he would be hurt. She focused on her arm and again, was able to reach out long and steady her dad. He was able to ride the rail like never before. He beamed back at Olivia, as though he knew about her super power and she shrugged her shoulders and beamed back at him.
Soon after this outing, very suddenly, a pandemic took over the world. Schools were closed and everyone stayed inside. Everyone was scared.
School went virtual, guitar classes and visits with friends and grandparents did, too. Everything was done in front of a computer. The entire world suffered through April, and then March.
When Olivia practiced, her mom, her dad and her brother, Zephyr became less scared and Atticus napped.
When the weather became nice, Olivia practiced out on the back step. The neighbors listened and their dark moods lifted.
In June, Olivia’s class was to have their 5th grade graduation ceremony, online. It made everyone sad, to miss walking across the stage to get their diploma, and the parties afterward.
The evening of the graduation, Olivia’s entire village gathered before their screens to watch. There was a technical glitch. The graduation video did not work. Everyone waited. Everyone became sadder, because now, not only were they going to miss the real graduation, they were going to miss the virtual graduation, too.
Olivia had an idea. She focused on her arm and it grew long, and longer still and quicker than the flick of an eye, her guitar was plugged in and in her lap. She unmuted the mic and she launched into ‘Satisfaction,’ and everyone rose in front of their computers and danced and laughed. She played, ‘Halleluiah,’ and everybody sang. She played, ‘Ode to Joy,’ and everyone listened, soothed and nodding their heads, yes, yes.
And then, the graduation video blared to life and the village watched the pictures of their graduates flash upon the screen. They watched as their names scrolled up, symbolizing their walk across the stage. They clapped for all that they had been through, together and apart. They clapped for the gift of Olivia’s music.
And, one by one, the screens went dark, everyone feeling a little closer, a little lighter than they did before they danced, and sang and witnessed this right of passage.
Wow, Mary! What an epic you’ve written! I love the way Olivia used her elasticity and music for good. Your ending is killer! I especially liked the line “They clapped for all that they had been through, together and apart.” That sums it all up perfectly! Terrific!
Thanks, Jill! So glad you liked it. It was fun to have the idea fall through the pen. Your encouragement means a lot to me.
What a sweet story and very relevant for today. I can tell you put your heart into this one. I bet there are a lot of kids out there that wish they had an “Olivia” at their school this year to help make their graduations special. ❤
Thank you, Michelle!! Your words made my day.
Limerick for Week 7
(superhuman strength, picnic)
WC 31
Super Ant loved a good picnic spread.
He’d hoist cheese, chips, bologna and bread.
Depositing the loot,
He’d go back for some fruit.
His whole army of ants stayed well fed!
Ants are amazing, aren’t they? And so are you, Marty, with yet another wonderful limerick. Thanks for all the smiles during this challenge!
Thanks, Jill. It’s been a treat to have this to look forward to each week.
The Robin Hood of ants? Nicely done.
That’s a fun thought! Thanks, Colleen 🙂
This was great fun to read. Go Ant go! 🙂
The best, Marty! Sure have loved reading your clever limericks each week!
fun! Love ants. 🙂
Super limerick! Great word choices and fun images.
Another awesome limerick!
Thanks for this challenge, Susanna! You always come up with great ideas to get creativity flowing. I hope everything with your family works out well. You are in my thoughts.
Blaze (invisibility, S’mores. 123 words)
Everybody thinks my dragon Blaze is imaginary. But he’s real…just invisible. And he’s my super hero. On the first day of school I didn’t think I’d make that big step onto the bus, but Blaze gave me a lift. He guided the ball right to my bat for my first Little League hit. He even helped me blow out the candles on my birthday cake. Everyone thought the one that kept relighting was a trick, but it was Blaze. He has quite a sense of humor.
Today we’re at camp. So far he’s helped me catch a fish and steer clear of poison ivy. We’re making S’mores, but we can’t have a fire. Cold S’mores? No way! Mine are just right.
Thanks, Blaze!
An invisible dragon to roast your s’mores? Yes, please! What an asset for camp! A fun story!
I love Blaze! Whether real of imagined.
So cute. What a perfect pet!
Sweet story! I love how the invisible dragon helps out in all different circumstances.
POSTED FOR KAY DIVERDE
Week 7: invisibility superpower; Popsicle (word count 205)
I bet you’ve never met anyone like me before. I can turn invisible. What? You don’t believe me? Let me show you.
Here I am walking down the street. You can see me, right? I’m the one with the neon green shorts and fluorescent pink tank top. La-di-da, la-di-da. I’m just strolling along, minding my own business. Cool! Here comes the ice cream truck. “May I have a cherry Popsicle please?”
“Sure, that will be 75 cents,” answered the ice cream truck driver.
I carefully open the wrapper to find my red, sticky Popsicle. I take one lick, and my feet disappear. Another lick, and you only see me from the waist up. By the time I take the last lick, all you can see is the wooden Popsicle stick floating in the air. Amazing, right?
This trick comes in handy when I want to get out of mowing the lawn or cleaning up the dog doo doo in the backyard. I only wish it were easier to get Popsicles at school!
For now, I’m enjoying the summer and being able to turn invisible while Popsicles are plentiful. So, the next time you see a floating Popsicle stick, beware. It’s just me using my superpower!
What a great idea, Kay–the invisible power of popsicles! I love your visual descriptions and kid-relatable humor. Great job!
Nice super power! 🙂
Now that is an interesting power. If only her or she could stock up on them!
Popsicles are so great. Who knew! Love it Kay.
Fun! I love the line about plentiful Popsicles.
Susanna, I will miss the fun of this weekly challenge and all the inspiration and creativity you and all the participants have shared! It meant so much to have this challenge in the midst of uncertain times. Thank you all! Here is my Week 7 entry:
The Sweet Smell of Friendship
By Jill Lambert (213 words/invisibility/s’mores)
There once was a skunk
who was hiking alone.
She sensed a strange scent
and it wasn’t cologne!
“That stench is bear stink!”
The skunk gasped for breath.
“I have to escape now
or it’s sudden death!”
Her fear was intense—
it imparted a power
that made her invisible,
for only one hour.
Then who lumbered in,
but the bear she had smelled.
He teared up and coughed,
“What IS that?!” he yelled.
For although the skunk’s power
had hid her from sight,
her fumes were still potent
enough to indict.
The bear couldn’t see her,
so he plodded on.
He found a good campsite
to pitch a tent on.
He set up his camp,
built a fire, and then
toasted some marshmallows—
enough for ten men.
The skunk was so famished,
she crept closer in,
then whimpered, “Oh, no!
I’m visible again!”
The bear caught a whiff
of her presence and knew
what was lurking about
just out of his view.
“Oh, come on over
and have a s’more!
I know that you’re out there.
I smelled you before.”
So the skunk slunk, relieved,
to the bear’s cozy site.
She enjoyed her s’more,
every last bite.
And after awhile
their sniffers went numb.
The laughed like best buddies.
Bear became Skunk’s chum.
I love how they ended up pals. Poor skunk, such a bad reputation, I’m glad friendship and s’mores won the day!
Thanks, Susan!
Love a happy ending! Rhyming is great! 🙂
Thanks so much for your feedback!
What a perfect way to end week 7 Jill! I think this is your best one yet! Love it!!! Great job on the rhyme and such a cute story!
Thank you, Michelle! Your support means so much!
This is really cute!
Thank you for reading and commenting, Colleen!
❤️Fun story, Jill.My favorite stanza was #3. You are an awesome rhyming guru, my friend. Well done!❤️
Thank you, Dawn! You have done some awesome rhyming of your own and I so appreciate your kind comments.
I like that you can rhyme and create a story. You have done it well.
All the best,
Lily
Thanks so much, Lily!
So fun, well done! Gotta love rhyme. 🙂
Thank you, Brenda! I try to give it up and try prose…but it just takes over! 🙂
Too cute! Lovely friendship theme! Such great rhymes, my favorite line is: Her fumes were still potent, enough to indict! So many cute details (toasted some marshmallow, enough for ten men – of course!). This one definitely should continue . . . to a PB!
Awww! Thank you, Katie! I appreciate it!
This is delightful! I love that Bear and Skunk become chums. Fun rhymes too! Great job.
Thank you, Sarah! I really appreciate you reading and commenting!
I love this!
Thanks so much, Corine!
You have written another great story again this week. Bear and Skunk sound like a fun pair to lead some picture books. I’ve enjoyed reading your stories and wish you the best with your writing.
Thank you, Ashley! I have enjoyed reading your stories, too…you’ve done wonderful work! Best of luck to you as well.
That means a lot. Thanks!
Jill, such a fun story! I love your ending – and the picture in my mind, of Bear and Skunk laughing and becoming chums. Well done!! I’m going to miss this challenge, too.
Thank you, Mary! I’m glad you enjoyed it! You’ve written some wonderful stories here and I wish you the best in your writing.
(Mind reading; goggles — 81 words)
MIND READER
By Rebecca Gardyn Levington
I bet you didn’t know about
my newfound superpower
but I must admit it really is quite cool.
When I put on these red goggles
I can read your every thought!
An astounding, very useful little tool!
So although you say I bug you,
and you tell me to “get out!”
and you threaten me and say you’ll tell our mother,
I just put on my red goggles,
and I know you’re really thinking:
“You’re the greatest, sweetest, cutest little brother!”
This is adorable, Rebecca! Great job in only 81 words!
So cute and 81 words! 🙂
Ha ha! He sees what he wants to see.
Very cute! What a wonderful big sister- who certainly loves her little brother! Reminds me of a song by Becca Shae called “Love Glasses!”
Awww! Love the sweet twist ending.
Lunch Lady
WC: 99 (elasticity/picnic)
Our lunch lady is weird.
At first, I didn’t notice.
But now, she creeps me out.
She has a superpower.
Yesterday, she was serving lunches; no biggie, but then, she turned around to stir the sauce.
On the stove, ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROOM.
No one’s arm is THAT long.
And, just as Shaun was about spill his milk, her hand reached COMPLETELY OVER the cafeteria and stopped it.
Today, we are having a picnic.
I swear, I just saw her slap a seagull away; WHILE IT WAS FLYING.
I think she’s elastic.
How is this possible?
Oh, those lunch ladies! They can do it all, can’t they? Wonderful, Susan!
As a teacher, I truly believe some “Lunch Ladies” have super powers!!!!
Great story! 🙂
Ha ha! Now that makes lunch interesting!
Ah Susan! I can picture the mom from The Incredibles being an undercover lunch lady! LOL Too fun.
I’m laughing hysterically. So cute and clever and don’t kids either love the lunch lady or are afraid of her.
Haha love this, so creative! Also love the voice. Well done!
Ha, ha, so funny! Great MC, the ‘lunch lady’ is a legend in her own time, love it! And you created great pictures in a few words, great job!
Fun! Love all the details and the ALL CAPS voice.
This Challenge has been a blast.
Thank you so much Susanna.
Breathe Underwater/Shark
Word Count 181
SHARK BREATH
By Deb Buschman
Liam swished his feet through the water as the boat swayed.
He loved the ocean but not his mean family.
Maybe he could swim far away.
Then he saw it. A fin.
His family was busy arguing and didn’t notice.
First a nose. Then jaws. Then a wink?!
Did that shark just wink at me?
Liam reached down and stroked the shark as he swam by.
The shark made another pass and nudged Liam’s tiny toes. He giggled and…
fell into the ocean. Before he could sink the shark swam underneath and brought Liam to the surface. He gasped, sputtered and smiled as he hung on to the shark.
The water sparkled as they made lazy circles.
Then a whoosh of air from the shark’s gills filled Liam’s mouth and under they went. He gripped tighter and held his breath. The shark winked again and Liam realized he was breathing underwater just like a shark.
Liam stroked the shark, winked and as the shark swam by the boat Liam waved. He could hear the yelling as they dove beneath the ocean.
Wow great tale! 🙂
Thanks.
Ha! I love it. That’s one good way to escape an argument!
Thanks Genevieve.
I felt Liam’s sadness turn to joy in this one…loved how shark helped turn everything around. A wonderful escape!
You left us a cliff hangar!!! I wanna know what happens in the rest of the story! Well done.
Nice! You turned things around, the shark in the ocean was nicer than the humans! I’m very happy Liam got to escape to, as I’m surmising, a new and nicer home under the sea!
Great title, superpower, and story!
A great escape! I like the idea of a friendly shark.
Susanna, Thank you so much for providing us with this writing opportunity! The 7 weeks just flew by! Your creativity was inspiring. I also enjoyed reading the amazing stories that evolved!
Praying all is well for you! 🙂
Super power – Time travel Object – Super Vision Goggles
Susan Schipper
Word Count 207
Dr. Whooo
Once upon a time, a wise old owl lived in a forest in a faraway land. His name was Dr. Whooo. The Doc, as his forest friends liked to call him, possessed a super power! He could travel back in time! All he needed was to wear his super vision goggles to get the job done!
One night, the doc heard a muffled cry. He turned his neck about 270 degrees to see where it was coming from and spotted a Compsognathus, the smallest known dinosaur. Dr. Whoo swooped down to comfort the dino! Compsognathus was far from home. He had no idea how he landed in the forest! Dr. Whoo knew just what to do. He donned his super vison goggles, placed Comsognathus on his feathered back and off he flew. They were going back in time to Jurassic Park!
It was a fantastic flight! They arrived in a blink of Doc’s binocular eyes!!! Comsognathus’ family was thrilled to have him back home. They offered Dr.Whoo a scrumptious meal of lizards and some bugs for returning Compsognathus!
After dining with his new friends, the Doc once again, put his goggles on and returned to his forest. He knew another grand adventure awaited him!
Dr. Whoo is such a good guy. Using his power for good and all… Sweet story!
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Fun! Love the Dr. Whoo word play.
🙂 My son is a huge fan of the “real” Dr. Who !!!!
Love the Dinosaurs and the Time travel goggles very clever.
Thanks! I had to do a little research regarding the dinosaur and “Dr. Whoo’s 270 degree neck turn 🙂
Very fun! The MC’s name made me chuckle. 🙂
So glad it made you chuckle.. 🙂 Thanks!
Dr. Whoo’s a true hero! And loved learning that a Compsognathus was the smallest known dinosaur – total bonus!
A Melodious Picnic – 148 words (mind reading, camp songs)
It’s picnic season – which means The Bear family is ready for action! Berries, nuts and leaves are alright. Fried chicken, cole slaw and chips are better.
Mama Bear spies a family settling in.
“Freda, you grab the pasta salad.”
“Yipee!” says Freda.
“Barnie, you take the watermelon.”
“Wahoo!” says Barnie.
“Wendell, you snag the apple pie.”
“Okay,” says Wendell quietly humming.
Freda and Barnie do their pre-pilfer warm up before heading out.
Wendell marches in place.
Freda zips back with pasta salad.
Barnie zooms home with watermelon.
They gush about their snatched goods.
Wendell bops in a corner.
“What about the apple pie?” asks Freda.
“Wendell would like to lead us in camp songs first,” says Mama Bear.
Wendell beams.
“How did you know?”
Mama Bear winks.
After belting out The Ants Go Marching, Wendell snatches the apple pie. Then The Bear family enjoys their picnic.
Sweet. I’m pretty sure ALL mama bears (and mama humans) can read minds….
We certainly try! Thanks for reading it, Genevieve 🙂
Love mama bear! 🙂
Delicious and fun! I love picnics.
Thanks Deb – me too!
Fun! I like the names, picnic setting, and word choices.
Thanks for reading and the specific feedback, Sarah!!
X-Ray Birthday (X-Ray vision, popsicle, and goggles – 135 words – ugh.)
“Now?” Jack begged.
“Not yet,” Mom said for the tenth time.
Jack huffed and puffed at the bags and boxes. Waiting to open gifts was torture!
“Happy Birthday, dear Ja-ack. Happy birthday to you!”
Jack wished, blew, and ate.
He slurped a popsicle and gasped. “X-Ray vision!” He saw a pool raft, soccer ball, building set, and swim goggles right through their fancy wrapping!
As the last bite of popsicle melted on his tongue, his X-Ray vision vanished.
When it was finally time, Jack tore into the packages and pretended surprise with each.
Later, Jack slipped on his goggles and – WOW! He saw inside the cabinet where Mom hid the last box of cookies, three lost cars under the couch, and his cat hiding in the coat closet.
“X-Ray goggles!” Jack said. “Best birthday ever!”
I can feel Jack’s enthusiasm through your great use of verbs – begged, slurped, gasped. I don’t blame him – that’s some serious birthday fun. Well done!
What child hasn’t wished to be able to see what their presents were before they were opened. I love the items he finds later. Especially the 3 lost cars. Popsicles are great.
Cute and fun! Jack is a relatable character.
This 7-week challenge was fun, challenging, and creative. Even if I don’t draw a prize I feel great about completing the seven little stories! It was interesting to read other writers too. Thank you.
Saving Mermaid Arie
By Cindy Boyll
breathe underwater, mermaid, goggles, 150 words
Off Ireland’s coast, there be mermaids.
I know this to be true, because Arie is my friend.
I rescued her once while exploring a sea cave.
There she was wrapped in plastic garbage.
“Help!” she whispered.
I grabbed my knife. Her eyes widened. I cut the plastic.
Then, with a tail flip, Arie dove into the water.
I stared and saw her red hair swirling below.
She popped up. “Thank-you. Why, are you here?”
“I make necklaces from sea treasures,” I said, pointing to mine.
“How lovely! Would you teach me?”
“Sure!”
We worked on our necklaces and did not notice the tide rising.
“Oh, no, I am trapped!” I cried.
“No problem!” Arie reassured. She disappeared into the water, returning with goggles.
“Here, these magic goggles allow humans to see and breathe under water.”
Together, Aerie and I make many necklaces and often swim to the bottom of the sea.
Love mermaid stories and you even put in a constructive way to recycle. Super!
A sweet friendship story with an important message.
Thanks so much for these seven weeks of prompts. They were fun, challenging, and got the creativity juices flowing!
Rocks Rule (Superhuman strength, pail) (118 words)
By Amy Flynn
“I LOVE ROCKS!” Ben shouted.
“TOO MANY ROCKS!” his Mom responded and made a new rule.
Only as many as he could carry.
That meant:
From their hike, two large flat ones.
From the yard, fifteen small round pebbles.
From the beach…
Ben struggled and juggled.
He stowed and dropped.
Then, behind the bramble he spotted a small silver pail.
He snagged the handle and started collecting.
Smooth sea glass.
Bumpy coral branches.
More and more, though the pail never grew too heavy.
Returning home, his Mom gaped at 500 additions to his collection, wondering how he had the strength to carry such a load.
Ben grinned, tucking his new rock pail onto his shelf.
For next time.
I wish I still had superhuman strength. This is very cute and collecting is so much fun. Great Job!
Amy- this reminds me of an old move with Lucille Ball and Ricky Ricardo when they go cross country in a camper and Lucy collected rocks from all their stops! The camper finally got too heavy, but Lucy couldn’t stop herself from getting more! LOL
Love this. What a fun superpower for a little explorer!
The end made me laugh!
Great ending.
Singing for His Supper (Elasticity, Campfire Songs)
200 Words
Farmer Jay walked away grumbling, “It doesn’t make sense. The gate is locked but the treats are missing.”
Gus watches Farmer Jay through a slit in the gate. His nose tingles, his tail swishes and his legs wobble while he sings:
I like to eat, eat, eat apples and bananas.
I like to eat, eat, eat apples and bananas.
BWEEP…his head pops through the hole.
He breathes in and breathes out, still singing:
I like to ate, ate, ate ay-ples and ba-nay-nays.
I like to ate, ate, ate ay-ples and ba-nay-nays.
SPOOT… his shoulders and front legs burst through the opening .
His belly is next. It is going to be a tough squeeze.
EEK.EEK.EEK. It sounds like a creaky door while he inches through humming:
I like to eat, eat, eat ee-ples and bee-nee-nees
I like to ate, ate, ate ay-ples and ba-nay-nays.
THWOK… Whew! He can breathe again.
I like to ite, ite, ite i-ples and by-ny-nys.
I like to ite, ite, ite i-ples and by-ny-nys.
CA-CHUNK… Through the hole he flies, crashing into the pail… which tipped the fork and flipped the treats to the floor. Gus grabs an apple and sings…
I like to ote, ote, o-ples and bo-no-nos.
I like to ote, ote, o-ples and bo-no-nos.
BURP…
Hysterical! I love the way you tied the story into a children’s song. Very cute.
So creative! I love the title, song, sound words, and funny ending. Great job!
This was absolutely hilarious!! Squeezing his tummy through the opening and crashing into the pail 🙂
I love how you weaved the song into the story and the ending, the burp! That was the icing on the cake.
You totally have me laughing especially with the burp at the end!
Thank you Susanna for this challenge. I enjoyed writing and reading all the entries (Yours as well!).
ROCCO RACOON
(x-ray vision, goggles)
by Ashley Congdon
WC: 189
Time to go dumpster diving for some tasty treats.
Half-eaten fish. I’ll take that.
Moldy bread. That’s delicious too.
Goggles? Hmmm . . . Let me check these out.
Whoa. Whoa. X-ray goggles!
No more rummaging for Rocco Racoon with these babies!
Dumpster #1, what do ya got for me? Dirty diapers! Yuck! Next!
Dumpster #2. Tasty tacos!
Uh, my stomach can’t handle the spicy tonight. There has to be something better.
Dumpster #3. Pizza boxes! Jackpot! I’ll dive right in. Plunk!
Nom. Nom. Nom.
Pt! Pt! P-tooey!
This ain’t pizza. Where’s the cheesy cheese, savory sauce, and crunchy crust? What’s the box say? I can’t see with these goggles on. Let me take them off.
VICK’S VEGGIE PIZZA
The only pizza place in town that sells ALL veggie pizza!
*With new and improved cauliflower crust*
What!?!? Veggie pizza? The only place and it’s the one I pick! Just my luck.
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Not the dump truck! Time to dive out. Whoosh!
No, no, no. Wait! My goggles!
There go the goggles with the garbage. A lot of help they were. Hmph! I guess it’s back to rummaging for Rocco Racoon.
Love rummaging Rocco, Ashley! What a fun voice! Great job!!
Thanks for your help! I’m glad you like him :).
This was hilarious, Ashley! Rocco is such a dynamic character and I like the way you applied x-ray vision to make his dumpster diving more effective. Clever!
I’m glad you enjoyed it Jill. I appreciate all your positive comments these past few weeks. Thank you for reading.
POSTED FOR LESLIE
Fire Focus
Super power:lights fire/and a surprise
Objects: smores, barbeque grill, popsicles
Word Count: 267 (Ugh) thanks for reading.
Did I tell you I have a super power?
Some call it X-Ray Vision, but no, I can’t see through things.
I can light them on fire!
This is great, right?
NO! Who do you think does all the work?
Me, that’s who.
“Tyrell, melt the snow off the driveway so I can go to work.”
“Tyrell, toast the bread for our BLT’s? And while you’re at it, can you cook the bacon to a nice crisp?”
At our family pool party I could take no more.
“Make me a ‘Smore, Tyrell; I keep burning my marshmallow.”
“Heat up the pool Tyrell. It’s too cold.”
“Hey Tyrell, start the fire in the barbeque. These hamburgers ain’t gonna’ cook themselves.”
I exploded!
I heated up the pool all right. The water bubbled over, shooting to the top of the palm trees. Everyone scrambled out of the pool.
I set the hamburgers aflame on the barbeque making Uncle T Jay jump to safety.
I seared all the marshmallows my cousins held over the firepit, and then melted all the popsicles they were eating.
“TYRELL LINCOLN BOOKER ROBINSON! YOU BEST BE PRAYIN’ NOW.” Mama was up like a shot. Oh no, I was done for.
Quick as a wink I jumped in the pool and sank to the bottom.
I looked up to see them gathered round, angry and threatening, waiting for me to surface.
The heat of the pool was nothing compared to the heat of them waitin’ up there.
I’d need to stay there until everything cooled down.
But I didn’t worry.
Did I tell you about my superpower?
I can breathe underwater!
Love this! Such fun action and a great twist at the end.
Great story, kept me reading as I wanted to know what was going to happen! Very realistic all the way through, and nice surprise ending!
Couldn’t resist trying one more this week. Found these prompts tougher to put into limerick form.
Thanks, Susanna, for giving us such a great contest. Hope you’ll do it again next year!
Limerick #2 for Week 7: using supersonic speed, s’mores
There was a wee lad from Nebraska,
Who ran, at top speed, to Kalkaska.
Eating five s’mores for power,
He arrived in an hour;
Then took off, just for fun, to Alaska!
FUN! Love the limerick.
Thanks for your comment, Sarah!
Love this!
Thanks, Michelle! Such fun prompts this week. Love the challenge 🙂
Susanna, I have SO enjoyed these weekly challenges. I’ve never written a superpowers story before and had a lot of fun with it. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
LINDY’S FLIGHT FRIGHT
(superpower: flight)
By Sarah Meade
Word Count: 178
Lindy swallowed her last bite of birthday cake.
“Your new seven-year-old superpower is…” Grandpa Magicalla announced.
“Flight!”
Lindy’s throat went lumpy.
Flight meant heights.
And Lindy had FLIGHT FRIGHT.
“Ready to try?” asked Grandpa Magicalla.
“Maybe later,” said Lindy.
“Let’s go for a walk,” said Grandpa Magicalla.
Together they sauntered down Spell Street.
“Aw, there’s a kite up in that tree,” said Lindy.
Grandpa Magicalla nodded.
“That shutter is crooked,” said Lindy.
“Ah,” Grandpa Magicalla nodded.
As they passed the park, they heard sobbing.
“M-m-my ball! It’s stuck!” The boy pointed to the roof of the picnic pavilion.
Lindy’s heart hammered. She wanted to help, but…
The boy’s big eyes shone with tears.
Lindy pushed her flight fright aside.
“I’m ready for my first flight, Grandpa.”
Lindy closed her eyes….
took a big breath…
and lunged into the sky!
She was up SO HIGH.
But she had no time for flight fright.
Whoosh! Lindy rescued the boy’s ball.
Whoosh! She fixed the shutter.
Whoosh! She freed the kite.
Lindy landed next to Grandpa Magicalla.
“Okay, where to next?”
Love the title and this is a really fun start to an MS! I hope you’ll expand the story!
Thank you so much for your encouraging words, Michelle! I may do that. 🙂
It came out so good. I’ve enjoyed these past weeks exchanging ideas and stories. It flew by!
Ashley, me too! Thanks so much!
Sarah, I really enjoyed this story–the title, the realistic dialogue, and the theme, with Lindy rising to the occasion and overcoming her flight fright. Marvelous!
Thank you so much, Jill, for reading and your encouraging words! Love your “rising to the occasion” pun, too.
Great story in very few words! Enjoyed reading it, Sarah.
Thank you so much, Marty!
Go, Lindy!
Thanks for reading, Corine!
Terrific tension building – I felt Lindy’s angst as each flight fright situation passed and was thrilled to see her conquer her fear in the end. Nicely done!
Thanks so much for reading and commenting, Deborah! I appreciate your encouraging words.
Great wordplay!
Thanks so much, Linda!
Thank you again Susanna, I didn’t want these prompts, and your encouragement to come to an end! Kind of like this story, LOL! Luckily I know there will be more, hope things at your house are getting better, and will soon, everywhere. Writing definitely helps, as long as we write, we show optimism for the future.
Breathe underwater, camp songs wc – 455
Fish Camp Rocks!
Mom & Dad were talking low
We heard ‘No camp this year’.
“We’ve got to think of something,”
Tristan whispered in my ear.
No soccer camp? No drama camp?
No overnight pajama camp??
No arts and crafts, or writing camp???
I frowned so hard I got a cramp!
“Let’s look at the new picture book,
We got from Aunt Lenore
She says it’s full of tricks and plots
Not EVER seen before.”
The book was in closet,
we sat down on the floor.
It popped open like a spring to
page one hundred twenty four!
The title of the chapter,
‘Living in The Deep Blue Sea.
First you need to learn to breathe
like a sea anemone.’
There were pictures. And instructions.
We were up all night!
We then headed for the ocean
When we thought we had it right.
Imagine our excitement!
On the beach there was a sign
‘Underwater camp is starting
when the sundial points to nine’.
We splashed for just a minute,
then swam down to join the fishes
Breathing like the darting minnows
through the waves and seaweed swishes!
“Campers swim this way,
It’s time to learn the fish camp song.”
There were manatees and moray eels,
fins flying, “Come along!”
Underwater singing?
Our jaws fell open wide!
“Please close your mouths”, said Puffer,
“A whale could swim inside!”
We learned the camp song quickly,
It was a catchy deep sea tune.
We paddled round and sang along
most of the afternoon.
And if you’d like to learn it,
Here it is, a happy song.
On land or in the deep blue sea,
like a sloop, it sails along.
The Fish Camp Song (Sung to the tune of the camp song: The More We Get Together)
The more we swim together, together, together
The more we swim together, the happier we’ll be.
Cause the sunfishes are funfishes, and the funfishes are sunfishes,
the more we swim together, the happier we’ll be.
The more we splash together, together, together
The more we splash together, the happier we’ll be.
Cause the jellyfishes are silly fishes, with long silky bellies fishes
the more we splash together, the happier we’ll be.
The more we float together, together, together,
The more we float together, the happier we’ll be
Cause snappers are flappers, and really good rappers
The more we float together, the happier we’ll be.
The more we dive together, together, together,
The more we dive together, the happier we’ll be
Cause clownfish are round fish, and they’ve never got a frown-fish,
The more we dive together, the happier we’ll be!
Right now you might be thinking,
could this fishy tale be true?
Just wait for night, in fading light,
listen close with all your might.
The fish will croon aquatic tunes,
songs rising from the blue.
What a fun way to round out week 7 Katie! I love ‘Cause snappers are flappers, and really good rappers’ AND ‘Cause clownfish are round fish, and they’ve never got a frown-fish’. So many fun lines in this one. Nice job!
Thank you, this one went swimmingly 😬!
I was smiling from beginning to end on this one, Katie! The magical book popping open reminded me of the Magic Treehouse series. The idea of traveling to different locations through reading is so universal! Once you got to the sea, I was totally immersed in your watery world. I loved the Fish Camp song and the way they got around all the cancellations. Spectacular!
Thank you! Might keep working on this one.
How fun, fish camp! I would love to go there. 🙂 What a delightful story.
Thanks! Fun to write!
Fantastic! I want to go to fish camp too.
POSTED FOR MICHELLE
(Superhuman Strength / Sand-Pail / Mermaid)
By Michelle S. Kennedy
Dig it up Jay (WC 206)
Jay woke up one morning
on a sunny summer’s day.
The ocean blue was waiting.
He readied to go play.
With sunscreen, and a shovel
and his favorite new sand-pail,
he set out for the beach
on a short but twisty trail.
When he made it to the water
underneath the blazing skies,
wading near the sandy edge
he heard a Mermaid’s cries.
He jumped off from his bike
with his bucket in his hand-
“What trouble’s you sweet Mermaid?
Why are you on land?”
“I washed upon this shore
and now it seems I’m stuck.
I don’t know what to do…
I could use a bit a of luck.”
Jake sprang into action
with a superhuman strength,
digging out her tailfins-
the whole entire length.
Finally, she freed from
beneath the flotsam grasp
and dove into the water
with a tired, breathy gasp.
“Thank you very much.
You’re such a splendid chap!
Your sand-pail and your vigor
have freed me from my trap.”
She gave a grateful wave
then splashed around the sea,
and caught up with some dolphins
that were swimming fancy-free.
Jay slyly eyed his pail.
“We saved another lass.
The Mermaid’s gone. Let’s look for prawn
so we can catch some bass!”
Very sweet story! Loved the lines ‘digging out her tailfins, the whole entire length’; and ‘caught up with some dolphins that were swimming fancy-free!’ Great rhyming, and meter, a nice picture of a fun, summer day!
Wonderful! Carefree at the same time caring. I love the title and the ending.
You ended with a stellar story, Michelle! The first three stanzas are so descriptive and set the stage so well. My favorite line is “beneath the flotsam grasp.” The ending is wonderful, too, with the mermaid fancy-free and Jay going back to his business. Terrific!
Yay, another mermaid safe. Thanks, Jay! I think he could have a career saving entangled wildlife at the ocean. I loved the scene you set, it makes me want to go to the beach. Nice job.
Thank you Susan!!!
Alicia Meyers Kelly
WC: 102
Words: Invisibility, Goggles
Trevor, take out the trash!
Trevor, clean up your room!
Ugh. I put on my goggles. “Trevor can’t right now, he’s invisible!”
Oh, said Mom. Well tell him to come back soon.
Trevor, help me with the dishes!
Trevor, watch your baby brother.
Ugh. I put on my goggles. “Trevor can’t right now, he’s invisible!”
Oh, said Mom. Well tell him we miss him!
Trevor…..
Ugh. I put on my goggles. “Trevor can’t right now, he’s invisible!”
Oh, said Mom. Well tell him, I’ll eat his dinner then!
I pulled off the goggles.
HERE I AM! HERE I AM! Trevor’s here now!
heheheh! I think there is a little Trevor in all of us! Cute!
This story made me smile. I like the repetition and fun ending.
Thanks so much for this fantastic challenge! It’s hard to believe that it’s the last one already. I will miss it.
(Word count: 66, super power: time travel, object: popsicle)
It was hot enough to cook s’mores on the sidewalk.
Luckily Lucy knew Time Travelling Tim.
“Where to today?” TTT asked.
“Anywhere in time where I’m not as hot,” Lucy said.
“How about eating yesterday’s popsicle again? Or we could go to last week’s beach? Or we could run through the sprinkler like you are going to do tomorrow.”
Lucy smiled. “Perfect. Let’s do them all.”
This is fantastic! Love the use of time travel and all the great ideas it suggests here.
I love the concept of time travel!
Fun! I love the different summer activities they do.
Thanks.
Oh, now I remember running through the sprinkler with my brother when I was little. Such fun! Simple activities that can mean so much. Summer has started!
Running through the sprinklers was one of my favourite things to do in the summer when I was a kid. I guess these days splash pads are more popular.
Goggles the Supercow – Tracy (111 words)
Goggles the Supercow
wore superhero goggles, a superhero cape…
but had no superhero powers
WHATSOEVER!
The other animals did.
The pigs could fly.
The sheep had super strength
and the cows could do kung-fu.
But not Goggles. She could do
NOTHING!
How udderly useless!
Except…
What were goggles for?
Swimming of course!
Goggles had never tried swimming until
she fell in the duck pond after an
unsuccessful flying attempt.
All of a sudden her goggles glowed,
her hooves kicked
and he tail swished as she
shot through the water like a…
MOOMAID!
If pigs can fly then
cows can swim!
Now Goggles has the best job in the world…
Duck pond lifeguard!
Love Goggles, the super cow, the fun puns, and the fact you managed to make us feel strongly for the MC in so few words. Great story with a cute ending.
Love this! What fun wordplay, a delightful read-aloud rhythm, and a perfect, unexpected ending. Great job!
True-Blue
Corine Timmer
Realistic fiction (439 words)
True-Blue
Cupido drooped his feelers. It was hot. Too hot for the time of year. His wings were starting to crack and his tongue was dry. He was tired too. Each day he had to fly further to find his favorite flowers to feed on. Even they were drying out! “I’ll try again tomorrow,” Cupido said to himself. Then he closed his wings and wound down for the night.
At sunrise, as Cupido looked up, he spotted a spider. He hadn’t noticed her before. She was sitting in the center of her web. Dangling from each knot in her creation were dewdrops. They glistened in the sun. Some seemed to carry a rainbow inside of them. Cupido felt a flurry in his belly. He had never seen anything so stunning. His legs started to shake.
In an instant, Linyphia darted towards the bottom of her web. At that moment:
Plop!
Plop! Plop! Plop!
The dewdrops fell down onto the boulder below her web and rolled into a rock pit.
“Eureka!” Cupido cheered. “Water!”
Then he started to tap dance while flapping his wings.
“What are you doing?” Linyphia said.
“I’m puddling!” Cupido cheered. “Haven’t you noticed there’s a drought going on?”
“I have all I need right here in my web,” Linyphia boasted. “Though I must admit I’m low on flies this year.”
All at once, Cupido had an idea. “Say, spider, can we do a deal?”
“My name is Linyphia,” the spider said.
“Sounds complicated,” Cupido scoffed.
“Linyphia Triangularis, to be exact,” the spider said, smiling.
“Will you shake your web for me every morning?” Cupido said. “In return, I will feed on the nectar of the blooms of your favorite hang-out. Pun intended. This is a generous offer. I don’t find yellow gorse that tasty, you know.”
Linyphia thought long and hard. Though she herself was fine, she had noticed there were fewer plants for her to choose from and fewer flies for her to snack on.
“I think it’s a sumptuous idea,” Linyphia said.
“By the way,” Cupido said. “My full name is Cupido Lorquinii. Double i on the end.”
Only then did Linyphia notice a scattering of blue on Cupido’s wings. A blue so glorious that her legs started to shake.
And so it happened that a spider and a butterfly forged a special friendship. Linyphia provided Cupido with a mineral-rich water source while Cupido ensured the continued life of yellow gorse plants, usually pollinated by flies, bees and bumblebees. And though the nectar of gorse was not his favorite, Cupido acquired a taste for it in the end.
This is a work in progress. The idea is that Cupido invites all his friends over (Cupido lorquinii butterflies live in groups) for a picnic and Linyphia ends up spinning a super kingsize web to provide them all with due drops. That’s where elasticity comes into the story. In the end this second part may become the final story. It will include back matter and a bibliography.
Notes
Cupido lorquinii is a butterfly.
Linyphia triangularis is a spider. (sheet-web spiders).
If this is a WIP, Corine, you have a great start on it! Such a needed example of cooperation between the butterfly and spider and I love the names! It would be fun to illustrate and your future plans for back matter and a bibliography would make it an easy sell to school libraries. Nice work!
Jill, thanks for your enthusiasm and lengthy reply. Yes, WIP. Made it up for this challenge and did some research already. I like working that way. Nature is so wondrous. This butterfly and spider live in my garden. The butterfly and spider don’t really share this exact cooperation as far as I know. I invented that bit. But it wouldn’t be impossible. I like mixing fact and fiction in a realistic way. Thanks for your encouragement.
Oops! Mistake spotted. Here’s the correction:
This is a work in progress. The idea is that Cupido invites all his friends over (Cupido lorquinii butterflies live in groups) for a picnic and Linyphia ends up spinning a super kingsize web to provide them all with dewdrops. That’s where elasticity comes into the story. In the end this second part may become the final story. It will include back matter and a bibliography.
This is my favourite line: “Each day he had to fly further to find his favorite flowers to feed on.” Love the names!
Thanks for reading and commenting.
POSTED FOR LIZ
Week 7- Limerick, super power- flying, object- the Moon
Liz Kehrli
There was a young girl who could fly.
Her Dad said for her not to lie.
So that afternoon,
They flew to the moon,
And all he could say was, “Oh my!”
One more. Super power- invisibility
There was a young man who would sneer,
And then make himself disappear.
One day his face froze
Now nobody knows
Where he is, since he can’t re appear.
Fun!
POSTED FOR KETAN
Mix and Match Week #7
by Ketan Ram
word count 122
Xray-vision goggles and supersonic speed pool float
When I grow up and become a super heroine, I’ll have…
Waterproof, titanium x-ray vision goggles and
a supersonic speed pool float with remote control toggles.
A elasticity sand pail to fill up with clues
and a mind reading popsicle when I need a good ruse.
The invisibility sharks will keep an eye on the seas
and a time traveling mermaid will help solve mysteries.
I’ll be the sleuthiest, smartest, super heroine ever;
working ’round the clock and giving up…never!
My cape will be fuscia with a silvery sheen
and my – Huh? What? Mom?!….
“Jess, are you ok, were you sleeping? Why don’t you come and make some s’mores with us…we’re gathered around the bonfire singing camp songs!”
POSTED FOR MIA
Week #7
The Super Babysitter
By Mia Geiger
178 words
(words used: elastic, super)
“Snack time!” said Misty.
Janie hopped up from the sofa. “Misty, you’re the best babysitter.”
“Why, thank you,” she said.
“But,” said Janie, “we only have pretzels. And prunes.”
Justin piped up. “We have chocolate-fudge swirls, though! But Dad keeps them on the top shelf.”
Misty looked up. “Hmm … .” She got up, but then sat back down, then she got up and sat back down again. Then all of a sudden …
WHOOSH! Misty str-e-e-e-e-e-ttched her arms, grabbed the box and plopped it onto the table.
Janie’s jaw dropped. “Wh-wh-what was that?”
“H-h-how did you do that?” asked Justin.
“My family is from Elastic City,” Misty whispered. “We each have super-elastic body parts. My brother can stretch his neck to the stars.”
Janie stuffed five candies into her mouth, all at once. “You really are the best babysitter!”
“Why, thank you,” said Misty, savoring the sweet treat. “We just need one more thing.” She stre-e-e-e-e-tched her arm behind her.
“Who wants lemonade?”
POSTED FOR BARBARA
PUDGY THE HERO
172 words
(Superhuman Strength and The Sun)
By Barbara Renner
Another cloudy day.
Krista pulls on her sweatshirt. “Let’s go for a walk, Pudgy.” She snaps a leash on the pug’s collar.
Pudgy tugs her to his favorite bushes as the wind howls through the leaves.
A flash of lightening.
A cracking sound.
A tree limb falls, pinning Krista to the sidewalk. “Pudgy, run home and get Mom.”
Pudgy licks Krista’s face.
All of a sudden, the wind stops, the clouds split, and the sun projects rays of light on Pudgy. He pushes the tree limb off Krista and rolls it into the yard.
“You’re my Super Hero, Pudgy. How did you do that?”
With the shafts of sunlight shining on Pudgy’s back, he pulls Krista to her feet.
He tips the garbage cans upright.
He stops a rolling car from entering an intersection.
He tows a loose Doberman behind the gate and clicks it shut.
He . . .
The clouds cover the sun.
. . . lifts his leg, squirts the boxwood bush, and licks Krista.
Krista and Pudgy walk home.
Just another cloudy day.
Mitch and the Invisible Shower Spiders
(362 words – invisible, sand pail, goggles, pool noodle)
by D. Litwer
Mitch stepped into the dark, scary room and closed the door behind him.
He flicked on the light.
He dumped his shower spider fighting equipment on the bathmat.
Slowly he pushed the shower curtain aside.
He checked the holes he had punched in the bottom of his sand pail.
Then he carefully looped the handle of the sand pail over the showerhead.
He adjusted the Spy Invisible Things Goggles over his eyes.
Then clutching his Invisible Creatures Smacker (which looked remarkably like an ordinary pool noodle), Mitch stepped into the bathtub and pulled the shower curtain closed.
He stretched forward and turned on the shower.
“Auuuggghhhh!” Mitch jumped back in alarm, banging his head on the wall of the tub.
The Invisible Creatures Smacker flew out of his hand and onto the bathroom floor.
There they were! The shower spiders! Coming out of the showerhead!
Trying to wrap their pulsating, shimmery legs around him and drag him back to their lair to feed to their children!
His knees shook. His heart pounded.
“Not today, shower spiders,” he whispered bravely.
He looked up. The sand pail was catching the shower spiders.
The holes in the bottom of it were too small for the spiders to get their legs through.
Mitch washed at warp speed, ducking under the tiny streams of water coming through the bottom of the sand pail.
As he reached out to turn the shower off, he accidentally bumped the sand pail.
Some of the captured invisible shower spiders sloshed out onto his feet.
Flinging the shower curtain aside, he rocketed out of the bathtub and snatching up the Invisible Creatures Smacker, he whapped wildly at his feet.
When he was sure there were no more invisible shower spiders on him, he carefully tilted the sand pail so that the rest of the captured shower spiders flowed down the bathtub drain.
Then just for good measure, he walloped up and down the bottom of the bathtub with the Invisible Creatures Smacker, making sure no invisible shower spiders survived.
From the hallway his mother shouted, “Hurry up! You’ve been in there long enough. And don’t leave your toys all over the floor.”
Thank you for this challenge Susanna! I really needed this:)
Squirrel mind reader (Mind reading / Popsicle)
“Acorn. “
What was that?
“Hide.”
Who said that?
“Acorn.”
I don’t see anybody.
“Hide.”
Oh, someone wants me to play hide and seek.
“Tree.”
Oh man! You found me behind the tree.
“Sunflower seed.”
Uhh, what? WHO is there?
“Acorn.”
Is that squirrel talking to me?
“Hide.”
It’s lips aren’t moving. But I’m hearing it’s thoughts.
“Uh oh. People monster.”
Wait. I’m not a monster.
“Don’t twitch tail.”
I’ll show you. I’ll get you a treat.
“Tail wants to twitch.”
Here I got you some seeds.
“Hungry.”
Yeah, that’s why I got you seeds.
“Popsicle.”
Oh yeah I grabbed a popsicle while I was inside. And these seeds for you.
“Popsicle.”
Well, I guess you can have a bite.
“People monster won’t share Popsicle.”
I’m not a monster! Here you can have it.
“Hide Popsicle.”
You can’t bury a Popsicle!
“People monster is scary.”
I’m going inside.
“Hey Bill! I got Popsicle for winter!”
lol! This one is so much fun. I like how you used all dialogue to paint a funny scene. Great job!