Use this image to write a story, poem or personal essay. Think about the character of the photographer, think too about who or what she is photographing.

“Can you read this book to me, please?”

Use this opening line to write a story, perhaps for children, perhaps for older readers. Think about who is asking this question, and who is answering. Remember to maintain tension and conflict, even in a story that starts sweetly.

Last weekend I had a baby. He’s my third child and I spent the week wondering at him. I also read lots of books while he slept on me and watched some terrible, terrible movies. Writers get to spend time watching movies and telling themselves it’s ‘work/research.’ I started this week with a huge pile of emails and then, top of the email list, much to my delight, was the news that my novel 40 Things I Want to Tell You has been named a CLA Honour Book. Here’s the press release.

All this book and baby talk got me thinking about a writing prompt for you to try. So, here goes.

Use this opening to write a story or personal essay:

When she opened the door, there on the doorstep was….