Most people enjoy opening gifts, excited about what surprise hides under the wrapping paper. Big or small, young or old, eyes light up when a gift is presented.

            Not all gifts are equal, however. Imagine getting a doll at age seventeen, not a collector’s doll, but one geared for a ten-year-old. Most teens would politely smile in front of the giver, then return it to the store at the soonest opportunity.

            Imagine, on the other hand, being given an expense-paid trip to Italy! New York City! Yosemite!

            Or tickets to a Broadway play, or concert, accompanied by dinner at a high-end restaurant.

            Your task is to write a story in which your character receives an unusual gift, preferably one that isn’t wanted. Emotional reactions are key.

            Have fun with this one.