Stone Soup

Where young artists paint the world with words

The international magazine of stories, poems, and art by young writers and artists. Published continuously since 1973.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Stay updated with our latest stories, poems, and news delivered to your inbox.

Ghost Park

Swaying wooden swings
Whisper to each other

The wind blows dry leaves,
Scattering messages across the park.

The white, lacy blur
Of a girl

Polished black boots drum along stone paths
As the boy calls out her name.

“Come back, Margaret!
I didn’t mean it!
Come back!”

Ghost Park Sariel Hana Friedman
Sariel Hana Friedman, 9
Pacific Palisades, Californii