Writing a memoir in six words has become a popular challenge with many websites showing thousands of peoples’ stories. Apparently it all began with Larry Smith of Smith’s Magazine who read about Ernest Hemmingway’s bet and challenged his readers to send in their own six word stories. Some thirty thousand stories later, and a book (”Not Quite What I Was Planning”), the six word story is alive and well.

One third grade class in South Jersey made a book of their responses, called “Not Quite What We Were Planning”. Quotes from that book include:

“Eight years old, combed hair twice.” -Noah
“Hate some boys but like others.” – Sarah
“Wish everyday was a bed day.” – Emily
“Nine years stacked within my soul.” – Laura
“A kids life is my life.” – Kion

There are many websites with more six word stories.Some are funny, some are sad and some are just plain weird, but they’re all interesting (although some are a bit rude – stick to the links here kids!) Al Upton’s grade did a great job of this task – follow the link to read some of their ideas. Then you can head to the Voices Online wiki, choose a picture and construct a thoughtful 6 word response.

Image: akahodag from Flickr.