In lieu of our New and Noteworthy Book Club this month, we’re celebrating the tradition of scary stories at Christmastime with a horror open mic night. Come feel the fright on this cold winter’s night!!

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some prompts that fit the event’s theme. Poetry and prose are both welcome. If you aren’t in the mood to write something yourself, bring your favorite children’s Christmas book or another poem/story that you’d like to share. 

Prompt #1: Write a horror story or poem that personifies a Christmas-related item.

Prompt #2: Write a Christmas story that is NOT scary. Your main character is really, really good at what they do and their family doesn’t understand their skill at all. Include a dinner scene.

Prompt #3: Write a horror story that is not related to Christmas, but involves a chaotic gathering of people. Your main character is easily overstimulated.

Readers will be able to add their names to the sign-up sheet starting 30 minutes before the reading begins. First come, first serve. Readers will have a time limit of five minutes at the mic so that we can fit in as many people as possible. 

Wear an ugly Christmas sweater! We’ll also be doing a Christmas raffle where three people who attend will win a free Advanced Reading Copy!