Which Anthology Concept Should We Create Next?

Written By ria cabral

One of my favorite things about putting together anthologies is discovering how a single creative prompt can spark hundreds of completely different stories and artworks.

Lately, I've been brainstorming some unusual anthology concepts—ideas designed to be simple enough for anyone to join, while still offering endless possibilities for imagination. Before moving forward, I'd love to hear what you think.

1. The Lost & Found Department

Every item has a story. Every story lost something.

Imagine a magical lost-and-found office filled with impossible objects:

  • A pocket watch that runs backward only on Tuesdays

  • A jar labeled "Summer, 1987"

  • A dragon's library card

  • One left shoe made of moonlight

Contributors would create flash fiction and artwork inspired by these mysterious found objects. The finished anthology would feel like a cabinet of curiosities where every item comes with its own hidden history.

2. One Minute Before

Every story happens exactly one minute before something changes forever.

Each piece takes place during the sixty seconds before a life-altering event:

  • First contact with aliens

  • A kingdom vanishes

  • Someone discovers immortality

  • A sealed letter is opened

  • A volcano erupts

Writers would capture the tension, anticipation, and uncertainty of the moment before everything changes. Artists would illustrate those frozen seconds suspended in time.

3. Tiny Doors

Nobody knows where they lead.

A mysterious tiny door appears somewhere ordinary:

  • In the trunk of a tree

  • Inside a library book

  • Beneath a teacup

  • Along a subway tunnel wall

What lies beyond? That's entirely up to each contributor.

This concept offers endless opportunities for wonder, mystery, fantasy, and adventure while remaining delightfully simple.

What Do You Think?

I'd love your feedback before moving forward with a submission call.

  • Which concept would you be most excited to submit to?

  • Which one would you most like to read?

  • Do any of these ideas spark an immediate story or artwork in your mind?

  • Would you combine elements from more than one concept?

Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite—or tell me which idea you'd like to see developed further.

Your feedback may help shape our next anthology, and I can't wait to hear what captures your imagination.

ria cabral