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: "Back Down that Trail"

• A last summer "hurrah!" has gone horribly wrong.
• Write a story or poem about getting back into the swing of things.
• On the edge of a darkened wood, a lone animal calls you forth.
• Something is happening again...and again...and again. What is it? What does it cause?
• Write a story or poem where one single leaf is the center of attention.