Recommended by Paul Smith

Something to put on the wall above your writing desk as an inspiration when the struggles of putting pen to paper is so difficult. Vivian Lermond is a master of the succinct and the pertinent! Inspirational.

An extraordinary story of a family all celebrating Halloween whilst unleashing secrets and stoking the family dynamics. A wonderfully out there depiction of how parents can embarrass their own children told through overheard monologues and cracking dialogue. Travis Byram has created a wonderfully funny and offbeat rooftop comedy of laughter and darkness.

This is so clever and can only imagine the fun that could be had performing it. Rick Park creates a perfect little play with virtually no words, but with tons of meaning behind what sounds are made. Cracking stuff!

A smile creeps across my face getting broader and broader as I read this wonderfully fun - and very off-the-wall monologue. I have no idea how Lee R Lawing gets into the mind of a lobster - rare or otherwise - but he somehow does...I think. Hugely original and enjoyable but with undertones of seriousness. Worth reading more than once and seeing what else can be found in it to delight!

A cracking little monologue from Vivian Lermond who vocalises many thoughts about the ageing process in a unique - and incredibly accurate manner. There is hope enveloped in these thoughts and offers a nudge to all who decide that compliance is not mandatory, Break out and break free!!

Christopher Plumridge has created a simple premise and executed a tense and amusing story which works an absolute treat. A really great example of really effective short writing. Cracking stuff.

This is such a clever, off-the-wall piece of writing. Despite the fact that it is plainly absurd, it somehow rings true - is this a dig about the ludicrous nature of business? If so, James Odin Wade hits the nail on the head. Apart from anything else it is very funny and the product of a wonderfully creative mind. Love it!

What a lovely piece of writing; complications of sexuality, coming out, family, timing of announcements and love all feature in this realistic duologue. Ward Kay imbues his characters with humanity and modernity and offers them dialogue which is punctuated with wit and wisdom. A delight.

This beautifully written duologue is fascinating, not least because it is based on a true story. The discussion of humour and what creates it is absorbing and the relationship between Charlie and Stan is established very artfully. An excellent piece of work from Kevin Broccoli which leads me to wonder whether there is a longer work about the two comedians waiting to be written! Wonderful!

The relationship between Achilles and Patroclus has fascinated me ever since I studied the Iliad for my degree. It is always good to read a new take on the story and here, Jessica Tocci has really succinctly told of the toxic relationship between Achilles and the Greek army and the love he has for his younger compatriot. It is lucid, vital and clever writing bringing alive the world of Homer.