Skip to content

2,071,771 books read so far

BBC 500 Words: Read the Top 50!

BBC 500 Words: Read the Top 50!

BBC 500 Words: Read the Top 50! image

If you’re looking for some short stories to keep you entertained, check out the 500 Words shortlist!

The top 50 tales – plus six extra wildcard stories – are available to read now!

Visit the 500 Words page to read the stories and listen to them being read aloud.

They’re perfect for when you fancy a break from a big book, or if you’re searching for a story before bed.

The winners of this year’s 500 Words competition will be announced on Friday 12 June.

Join in the fun in Chat and let everyone know which stories are your faves!

Information for adults

Schools

Visit our School Zone to access free resources and Challenge ideas for your class.

Families

Visit our Home Zone, full of useful Challenge information for parents, grandparents and carers. For information about supporting reading in the early years visit our Pre-School Zone.

Libraries

Visit our Library Zone to find libraries near you running the challenge, and how to take part.