One Hundred-Word Wonders is a writing prompt that celebrates the marvel of storytelling in a concise form. Within the realm of micro-fiction, writers have mastered the art of crafting complete narratives in just a few sentences.
These bite-sized pieces should showcase the power of brevity, leaving readers in awe of the vast landscapes painted within a mere hundred words. So, how can a story be effectively told in such a limited space? Let's explore the possibilities together.
Today’s prompt is:
A FAMILY SECRET
Write in exactly 100 words, a story, poem, or creative non-fiction in any genre, based on the prompt. The 100-word count does not include the title. Please use WordCounter or your writing software to ensure your piece is exactly 100 words.
Place (copy and paste) your 100-word response to the prompt with its title in a comment below. If you’d like, publish on your own Substack site or Substack Notes with a link back to this page.
Tap those little hearts on responses in the comment section, if you are moved to do so.
These prompts don’t have a deadline.
My response is included below.
Time to Open the Door
Lynn’s 10-year-old eyes searched her father’s face for the truth hidden behind his silence.
“Dad, please,” she said. “Tell me. How come Grandma hasn’t visited us lately or even come for Thanksgiving?”
He took a deep breath. “After your mom died two years ago, I told her something that she couldn’t forgive, so she shut the door on us.”
“What did you tell her?”
He looked at her. “I was honest about who I am… who I loved.”
“But you love me!”
“It's not because of you. It’s because I also love Tim.”
“Well, that’s stupid! I love Tim too.”
Author's Note
Look for a new One Hundred-Word Wonders prompt every third Wednesday of the month.
Thanks very much for reading, subscribing, and sharing the stories, poetry, and essays in this space. If you like a story, poem, or essay please click on the heart. Also if you are so moved, please leave a comment.
My mother chose when, where, how and who she would share a family secret with. Always after a few drinks. That was a given. Always when there was only one person present. One of us five children. Never allowing a witness to the surprise leak of information. When I (the youngest), was the recipient…I always wished I wasn’t there. Secrets were never pleasant, and never meant to be shared with anyone. Even brothers and sisters! As I grew up, I held the secrets in my mind, only. Until the day she passed. Never realizing, how they impacted my soul.
100-WORD STORY—PROMPT: FAMILY SECRET
TITLE: FAMILY FUNCTION
"This is a private function," my wife informed the woman and her children. "We reserved it over two months ago."
"Oh, I'm sorry, I had no idea. My husband reserved it a couple of months ago. Who had reserved it for you?"
"No, just please find another place for your little get-together. This one's taken."
"Well, then," the other woman said, "we have a problem."
When I arrived, my wife felt relieved, knowing I would straighten this out.
"You're all probably wondering why I called you all here. Hear me out. I love you all the same...and completely."
MOTHER'S SECRETS-CNF
My mother chose when, where, how and who she would share a family secret with. Always after a few drinks. That was a given. Always when there was only one person present. One of us five children. Never allowing a witness to the surprise leak of information. When I (the youngest), was the recipient…I always wished I wasn’t there. Secrets were never pleasant, and never meant to be shared with anyone. Even brothers and sisters! As I grew up, I held the secrets in my mind, only. Until the day she passed. Never realizing, how they impacted my soul.