The dog days of August shouldn’t zap your creativity.

If you think you have a knack for writing, put your creative juices to work and take part in next month’s “Fiction in a Nutshell” contest.

Here’s how the Acorn’s popular annual competition works:

In 100 words or less, write a fiction story and e-mail it to steve @theacorn.com. You can also send it by mail to the address on page 4. Include your name, address, age and phone number. This information must be included.

Make it sci-fi, drama, adventure, romance or anything else from the world of make-believe. You’ll be judged on writing, creativity and topic. Remember, no more than 100 words, fiction only–nothing from the real world–and no poems.

One entry per person.

“Fiction in a Nutshell” winners will be announced in two categories: under-18 and 18- and-older. Each winner will receive a $50 prize and their story will be printed in the Acorn.

Al l entries must be received by noon on Fri., Aug. 27. Winners will be announced Thurs., Sept. 9. (Search “Fiction in a Nutshell” at www.theacorn.com to see past winners.)

It’s not easy to tell a tall tale in a paragraph or two, but that’s the fun of it.

Let your imagination run wild!