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The Warren Adler Short Story Contest

Summer, 2008 Contest Theme: Humor

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Suggested by the recent publication of Warren Adler's latest novel, Funny Boys, the theme for the Summer 2008 Warren Adler Short Story Contest is humor. We're looking for humorous stories in all their varied forms. From satire to farce, from the whimsical to the uproarious, all writers looking to get a laugh (in a good way!) should enter. We are looking for the subtle and the pungent, the black and dark, the sporty, the salty, the waggish, or whatever can spark a knowing smile, a sly chuckle, or a hysterical belly laugh. In other words, anything goes, just as long as it falls into this category, however one stretches its elastic boundaries.

Entries must not exceed 2,500 words, and there is a minimum length of 1,000 words. As in the previous contests, all stories will be judged on the basis of character authenticity, plotting, narrative drive, and the skillful manipulation of the short story literary form.

Five cash prizes will be awarded.

The winning story will be awarded the $1,000 grand prize and a personalized first edition of Funny Boys. Mr. Adler will also choose his top five for a People's Choice award that will also be awarded personalized first editions.

Although Mr. Adler will have already chosen the winner, five finalists' stories can be seen below. The People's Choice winner will be determined by public voting. Warren Adler's top choice, along with the People's Choice winner, will be announced September 15. Prizes will be as follows:

• 1st Prize: $1,000
• People's Choice Prize $500
• Remaining finalists receive $150 each

Authors retain worldwide publishing rights.

Sammy Spumoni: The Italian Matzoh Ball by Michael Ginsberg

Cat of the Living Dead by Thomas Juvik

Sensory Overload by Neil McCabe

Expert Advice by Sonia Suedfeld

The Curse of Kitsch by Jerrel Swingle

People's Choice Award Voting

View results!

See winners from the 2007 New York story contest and the 2006 Divorce Story contest.