Join our October Short Story Contest

The Beauty of Short Stories: Announcing Our October Writing Contest

Short stories have a way of catching us off guard. They don’t take hundreds of pages to build a world or introduce a character—you’re invited in quickly, swept into a moment, and left changed by the end. They’re like windows that suddenly open and let in a rush of fresh air, reminding us that even in a handful of pages, we can glimpse truth, beauty, and belonging.

That’s why I’m thrilled to announce that October 2025 is our month of short stories here at Rooted Minds. Not only will we be celebrating them on the blog, but we’re also inviting you to join us in creating them.

Rooted Minds Podcast: Season Two

As we launch Season Two of the Rooted Minds Podcast, we’re journeying through classic short stories—timeless works that have shaped generations of readers and continue to stir imagination today. From fairy tales and fables to mysteries and modernist sketches, these stories remind us of the enduring power of storytelling.

🎧 Watch a preview of Season Two here:

🎥 And check out our official video promo:

If you’ve been looking for stories to spark your family’s imagination or to give your own creativity a boost, this is the season for you.

Join the Short Story Contest

And here’s where you come in: we’re hosting a Short Story Writing Contest for the entire month of October. This is your chance to put your creativity into words and share your story with our community.

Here’s what you need to know:

Contest dates: October 1st to October 31st!

Prizes:

• Our top 20 winners will have their stories compiled into a Rooted Minds anthology book that you can purchase once the contest is over.
• Our top 5 winners will have their stories featured on our newsletter.
• And our number 1 winner will get a podcast episode dedicated to their short story.

The contest is completely FREE to join—no commitment required. If you want to have fun this October writing a short story with us, click this link to sign up for the competition!

This is the link to join our free community space where contest-related events will be held!

We can’t wait to read what you create and celebrate the unique voices within our Rooted Minds community.

Why Short Stories?

Short stories remind us that storytelling doesn’t have to be long to be powerful. They’re approachable for writers and readers alike. They can be read aloud at the dinner table, slipped into a busy day, or revisited again and again.

In a culture of noise and hurry, the short story offers us a pause—a concentrated drop of meaning and beauty.

So sharpen your pencils (or open a fresh document) and start writing. October is your month to share a story.