500 Words 2025/26: read a finalist's story from the 5-7 category

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.

The Comet and the Earth by Harry H.

"I'm coming," said the Comet as it hurtled through the cold, dark sky.Its tail sparkled like a million stars. It had been flying for a very long time, and now its journey was almost over.Down below, the Earth turned slowly. She was covered in green forests and blue seas. Enormous dinosaurs walked across her land."I can see you," said the Earth softly. "Why are you coming so fast?""Because it is time," said the Comet."Time for what?" asked the Earth."Time for change," said the Comet.The Earth was quiet. "But my dinosaurs are happy. The forests are full of life. The seas are calm. Why must you come?"The Comet's voice was gentle. "Because all things must change. I bring endings, but I also bring new beginnings."The Earth shivered. "Will it hurt?""Yes," said the Comet. "Your skies will burn and your forests will fall. But one day, you will grow green again. Tiny new creatures will appear. They will be small but clever, and one day, they will look up at the stars and wonder where they came from."The Earth looked sad. "The dinosaurs do not know.""Tell them I am sorry," said the Comet."I will," said the Earth. "And I will keep them safe in my ground, so they are never forgotten."The Comet grew brighter and brighter as it came close."I must go now," it said."Then I will be brave," said the Earth.The sky filled with fire. Mountains shook. The world went dark and cold.For a long, long time, the Earth was silent.But slowly, the ash began to clear.Rain fell. The sun returned.Tiny green plants pushed through the grey ground.Little animals came out from their hiding places.The Earth smiled. "You were right," she whispered into the stars. "After fire comes life again."Far away, a small twinkle shone in the sky. It was the Comet's voice, faint but happy."I told you so."The Earth turned toward the sun. "Let's begin again," she said.

Need more inspiration?