A grownup game of fill in the blanks is this month’s challenge.

The first sentence of any story sets the tone, establishes the setting, and is meant to pull readers into what’s going on. Choices you make as a writer do all these things, and more. Fill in the blanks of this first sentence, then writer a story that builds from the choices you make:

The (blank) arrived when most of the (blank) were (blank).

Remember: Challenges are supposed to be fun, but don’t forget to stretch yourself and take risks. If you normally write fantasy, try science fiction. If you’ve never tried writing in first or second person, here’s your chance. The story doesn’t have to be a masterpiece, this is all about trying new things and gaining new skills, and most of all, having fun. Challenge stories can go up on the workshop at anytime. Put “Challenge” in the title so people can find it.

Challenges can be suggested by anyone and suggestions should be sent to Jaime (news (at) onlinewritingworkshop.com).