Congratulations to Hardy Griffin, author of “Ahmet Usta,” winner of the 2025 Summer Short Story Award for New Writers! Guest Judge Jennine Capó Crucet writes that she was “transfixed by how expertly the tension and conflict are sustained throughout the story—all the way until its breathtaking end—in a way that felt effortless, inevitable, and masterful.” Griffin’s story will be published in April. Congratulations to all of our finalists and honorable mentions, and a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our submitters. The Winter Award is open through February 1!
Winner
“Ahmet Usta” by Hardy Griffin
Second Place Finalist
“The Corpse Flowers” by Thomas Heise
Third Place Finalist
“Will the Real Kim Novak Please Stand Up” by Rachel Vogel
Honorable Mentions
“UNDELIVERANCES” by Charlie M. Case
“The Hurt I Am Rendering” by Nathan Kimball