From adventurous tales of self-reliance and desperate escapes to deep connections with family, friends, and companions, the stories in this anthology display the talents of Lane County's young writers and offer a rare glimpse into the depths of their hearts. Fiction Fantastic-a project of Wordcrafters' Writers in the Schools youth programming-is one of the few opportunities for students in Lane County, Oregon, to showcase their writing, learn their craft, and engage with other writers. This anthology is made possible through the support of grants and the generosity of donors like you. Please consider making a donation at wordcrafters.org/donate. A heart-felt thank you to the generous supporters of Fiction FantasticElizabeth George Foundation Euphoria Chocolate James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation Luminare Press Marie Lanfrom MillsDavis Foundation Oregon Arts Commission Smith Family Books Learn more about the creative writing classes and events at Wordcrafters in Eugene at wordcrafters.org 2025 Fiction Fantastic Finalists K-2 Spotlight "The Secret and Magical Garden" by Hazel Rallen, Ridgeline Montessori Public Charter School Elementary school "Roses" by Ivy Olszewski, Ridgeline Montessori Public Charter School "The Warm Arctic" by Helen Nunes, Fairfield Elementary School "Land of Fire - The Beginning" by Hunter Penrod, Creslane Elementary School "The Right Turn" by Paige Stutzman, Oaklea Middle School Middle school "Triple Dog Dare" by Violet Dunlop, Kennedy Middle School "The Blood Fog" by Summer Rose, Bridge Charter Academy "Wishing For Purple" by Juniper Vold, Cascade Middle School "Strange Boy" by Adrienne White, Cal Young Middle School High school "Sir Gwendolyn the Anxious" by Brianna Bird, Springfield High School "Duty of a Killer" by Michelle Diaz, Homeschool/Independent Study "Ragile Thissideup: A Christmas Tale" by Kathryn Dieterle, South Eugene High School "Superscript" by Ishika Chakraborty, South Eugene High School "Birdsong" by Emmett Coughlan, South Eugene High School