Editor’s note: Donald Lawson’s story was an honorable mention in The Kiosk’s Fall 2023 Fiction Story Contest.
Theme: Fear of the Unknown
Age Group: Elementary School (4th – 5th Grade)
Acknowledgement Page: Tested and approved by my 10-year-old cousin Lily
Page 1: Once upon a time in a small town, there lived a group of friends named Emma, Jack, and Lily. One sunny afternoon, they decided to explore the mysterious forest on the outskirts of their town. The forest was known as the “Enchanted Forest,” and many rumors surrounded it. Some said magical creatures lived there, while others claimed it was haunted. Despite their fear of the unknown, the curiosity of the three friends led them to embark on a thrilling adventure.
Page 2: As Emma, Jack, and Lily entered the Enchanted Forest, the trees seemed to whisper secrets, and the leaves crunched beneath their feet. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, creating a magical atmosphere. The friends laughed and chatted, but a subtle fear lingered in the air. Suddenly, they stumbled upon a peculiar clearing with a mysterious door standing alone.
Page 3: Intrigued, the friends approached the door cautiously. It was old and covered in vines, giving it an ancient appearance. The door creaked open, revealing a passage to another world. The trio hesitated but decided to step through, their fear slowly transforming into excitement as they entered a land of wonders and enchantment.
Page 5: However, as evening approached, a mysterious mist enveloped the enchanted land, and the once-friendly creatures seemed to disappear. The friends felt a sense of unease, and the fear of the unknown crept back into their hearts. They realized they needed to find their way back home before the forest became too unfamiliar and intimidating.
Page 6: With courage in their hearts, Emma, Jack, and Lily retraced their steps, following the magical trail of sparkles left by the fairies. The mist lifted, and the enchanted land returned to its friendly and welcoming state. As they stepped back through the mysterious door, the friends felt a mix of relief and accomplishment. The fear of the unknown had tested their bravery, and they had emerged victorious, with memories of a magical adventure that would stay with them forever. And so, Emma, Jack, and Lily returned to their small town, cherishing the lesson they had learned – that sometimes, facing the fear of the unknown can lead to the most extraordinary and enchanting discoveries.
