Mini-Contest #49
The 49th OTP mini-contest launched in May 2021. This mini-contest asked contestants to write a story between 25 and 50 words long that represented a sales pitch of some kind that failed because the seller gave up too much information.
We received 89 entries. Here are the winning entries, then the honorable mentions. Four of the six winners are new to OTP.
Third Place by Laura Ruth Loomis (published many times in OTP)
Victorian fixer-upper house with character, high ceilings, four bedrooms, two baths, fireplace, guaranteed not haunted! It’s been completely exorcised–twice! On large lot with freshly dug garden.
Second Place by Amna Adil (new to OTP)
Sarah is greeted by an ominous man when she answers the door. “I sell cutlery made by local artisans. It would look lovely on your mahogany table.”
A shiver runs down her spine as she slams the door. You can only see her dining table from the fenced-off backyard.
First Place by Rita Riebel-Mitchell (new to OTP)
During the interview, Adele sold herself well.
“Confidentiality is a big concern here,” said the boss.
“I’m great at keeping secrets,” said Adele.
“Can you give me an example?”
“I didn’t tell anyone that I Tweeted a photo of my last boss in bed.”
Honorable Mentions (no money, just fame)
Three other entries scored highly enough to earn honorable mentions.
Locked Out? Windows all fastened? Doors all closed? Never fear. We can help you get back into your home, without damage or mess.
Ring: 055505872945
Endorsements: “Ronnie is in a class of his own.”
–Detective Inspector Collins.
(by Alison Hilbourne, published in Issue #14 and mini-contests #21 and #39)
USED TYPEWRITER TO SELL. OLDISH, but CLOSE TO PERFECT. IT’S your LUCKY hour! FIRST come, FIRST Served. FREE delivery POSSIBLE too. JuSt $25. LOWEST COST you’ll EVER SEE. SERIOUS REQUESTS o ly.
(by Danielle McShine, new to OTP)
This Father’s Day, get Dad the Super Saw 5000. With new, improved diamond powder encrusted dual blades—his weekend project will become an exercise in precision and speed! Rated number one on flimflamschemes.com, our sure-to-please product will bring miles of smiles to Dad!
(by Rolf Rathmann, new to OTP)
Congratulations to the winners and our sincere thanks to everyone who entered the mini-contest.