500 Words 2024/25: read a finalist's story from the 8-11 category

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This story was chosen as a top 50 finalist for 500 Words 2024/25.

Remember, spelling, punctuation and grammar are not taken into account for a 500 Words story, therefore all the top 50 stories have been published how they were submitted.

Grandpa’s Magic Memories by Georgia B. W.

It was morning and I was putting my socks on when I remembered. We had to move away for the summer to look after Grandpa. Mum said he has dementia but what does that mean? And why did we have to look after him? All I knew is that he lived in a stinky old house far away from the sea.

Once we arrived at Grandpa's, I saw nothing but an old, crooked house with peeling paint. I felt a hot surge of anger as I realised, I had to sleep here. As I trudged down the drive, I heard a loud cry. "Thar she blows!". I looked over at mum who shook her head sadly.

As we entered the musty house, I saw a spindly old man with shock white hair dressed only in his underwear. On his head was a naval cap. "Ahoy there mateys!" he yelled. "Don't be a bunch o' landlubbers, get up here and help me!". Mum didn't approve, "Dad, you're not in the navy anymore" but Grandpa just looked confused and carried on dancing on the wobbly, wooden table. Mum sighed, "I'll just show you to your room".

My room wasn't at all how I remembered. It was as bare as a prison cell "Well at least I have a bed" I thought.

That night I tried to sleep but all could think about was how sad Grandpa was and how he longed to be next to sea as much as I did. But just then I heard a tapping on my window. Outside, I saw a tall, beautiful eagle who said, "If you wish to venture across the seas jump on my back and the seas you shall see!" I was going mad. But what had I got to lose? So, I jumped on his back and off we went bringing Grandpa with us too.

Grandpa was confused at first but gave a hearty whoop when he saw the glistening sea. I had never seen a happier man in my life and never been so happy before myself! As we flew over the water, some kind dolphins swam with us into the dark night sky. "The sun is rising; we must end this adventure and meet again soon!" chorused the eagle. Away we flew back to our beds which didn't seem as bad anymore.

Next morning, as I padded down the stairs, I heard Grandpa talking to Mum. He wasn't making any sense, and they were both getting frustrated. Grandpa seemed as lost as ever and I wondered if last night had really happened.

But when Grandpa saw me, I could see a twinkle in his eye. He very clearly said "Aye! What a wonderful sail we had last night Sadie, I can't wait for the next one!". As I hugged him, I knew that we had made a memory that he would never forget. I finally felt hopeful about the summer ahead and all the adventures we were going to have together.

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