Rat Bag Lit: Themed Drabbles: Weird Gifts Gold Star Program Gold Star Free Tip Jar Option

Deadline: Monday, December 7, 2026 11:59 PM EST (in 35 days).

This month's drabble theme is:

Weird Gifts

All I want for Christmas... is weird.

As we rats always say, never look a gift rat in the mouth, unless they're from Chicago. Grandma's Hanukkah gift is a bit... unorthodox this year. Is that poorly wrapped Kwanzaa gift from your brother-in-law wriggling? What's in the gift bag that appeared on your bathroom vanity when you live alone? Is it true that presents from Krampus can only be opened under the full moon? When is a present from Belsnickel more of an unexpected obligation? Does a curse count as a holiday offering? The winter holiday season is approaching quickly... let's get weird with it.

We are looking for 100-word stories (i.e. drabbles) for this call. You can submit two, as individual submissions.

No reprints.

We'll choose our favorites for digital publication.

100 words exactly, maximum 15-word title.

Pay is $1.00 per drabble. (i.e. 1 cents per word, for you rule breakers)

We pay via PayPal only and cannot make exceptions.

We often send reader's notes, some of which may be rat-themed and unhinged. You can opt out of receiving reader's notes by including a note in your cover letter.

Category: Fiction
File types: .doc, .docx
Number of Pieces: 1 piece

Anonymous submissions are required (no identifying information in files).
Simultaneous submissions are allowed.
Reprints are not allowed.
Multiple entries are allowed.
AI-assisted works are not allowed.

Return to overview / See other calls

You are not logged in. You need to log in before you can submit. Sign up if you haven't already. (A subscription is not required to submit.)