Write a story or poem then read it aloud and get some applause! Fireside Tales is a program for writers to practice and share their work.

At the beginning of each month, the Ames Free Library will provide a set of prompts to get inspired by. Utilize these prompts, or come up with something of your own devising! Then, at the end of the month, orate and share your tale in front of the stone fireplace in Queset House’s Library Room, a historic spot filled with the books, stories, and words of years past, now being joined with those of the present.

Reading time will be dependent on how many participants there are, registration not required. But don’t worry if your story runs longer, just read what fits within the allotted time. Fireside Tales is a writing exercise program, so even if your story isn’t quite finished, or has a few kinks to be ironed out, it’s still welcome for telling.

Open to writers ages 13 and up.

This month's prompt theme is: "Hot Dogs & Hotdogs"

• A BBQ get together as searing grills, chilled drinks, and spicy drama
• Write a story or poem about a dog that is too hot. Or a hotdog. Or both?
• It's too hard to do anything when the sidewalk is so hot. Just sittin' doin' nothin'...unless?
• There's so much noise around here! What is all that noise?
• Write a story or poem involving a scuba diver, diving, or an old diving suit.