It seems like most of the writing I do these days is in emails, especially emails for work. That’s probably the case with many people. Work emails tend to be, unsurprisingly, most informational but an email is also just writing and can convey a story.

There are lots of examples of stories written only through communications. It’s officially called an epistolary story, but that just means written through letters. Dracula, by Bram Stoker is mostly written through letters (also diary entries). One recent story I love called Dear Committee Members, by Julie Schumacher, is told entirely through letters of recommendation and other letters by a university professor. It’s actually hilarious.

Story Prompt: July 27, 2026

Write a story in the form of an email

A note on this type of writing. It is true that an email (or any letter) can be used as a framing device for any kind of writing. For example, you could write “Dear Jane, something strange happened to me today…” and then proceed to just write a story. However, if you do choose to write a story as a letter or email, it’s best that there is a reason for that. Otherwise, just write the story.

If you write a story for this prompt, send me a link to your story on your own site, either in the comments or at info@greenwalledtreehouse.com.

Have a great week!