entry for Fall Writing Frenzy 2026
The Scariest Costume
By Joanna Szeto
Ccccrrrrrreeeeaaaaak!
The coffin lid opened.
A creature climbed out and joined the procession of children.
“Trick-or-treat.
Howl and bleat.
Give me something small and sweet.
If you don’t.
Be prepared
To get soiled, slimed, and scared!”
“That’s not scary!” cried a kid.
“You won’t win!” cried another.
He needed to be scarier.
He had to win!
The witch said so.
Win or POOF! One night. One chance.
“Coming back from the dead has consequences!”
They scared him to death.
He needed justice.
Justice doesn’t disappear. It comes back with a vengeance.
The time had come.
Bullies beware!
The creature stepped behind a bush and made some adjustments.
He removed his garments and smeared mud over his face and body.
He rolled in the crunchy leaves.
He stepped back out into the moonlight.
Attack of the Swamp Monster!
As he stepped forward, eyes widened.
He felt mud oozing down to his toes.
He walked up to the stage and faced Jason.
“Who’s the scariest one now?”
The Halloween trophy dropped from Jason’s hand as his eyes rolled back.
Clunk! Thud!
Jason’s face hit the floor.
“Ahhhhhh!”
Contestants and judges ran.
“I won!”
He glanced in the mirror.
“Ahhhh! I’m naked!”
