As we wrap up how to write endings this month, I have to ask what are your favorite endings? I think one of the reasons a book or movie becomes a person’s favorite is because of the ending. I can’t imagine rereading, rewatching, or recommending a story that has an attention-grabbing beginning, a riveting middle, and then a mediocre ending.
In fact, I will recommend books or movies with less-than-stellar beginnings with the advice, “Yes, it starts slow. But wait it out. Then it gets really good.” I would never recommend a story to a friend with the words, “The beginning and middle are great. Just don’t expect much from the ending.”
I’ve described some of my favorite endings in articles this month on how to write satisfying and surprising endings. Some other favorites are:
- “Inquest” by Loel Yeo. Mystery short story
- “Wet Paint” by Robert E. Pinkerton. Mystery short story
- “Naboth’s Vineyard” by Melville Davisson Post. Mystery short story
- “The Long Way Down” by Edward D. Hoch. Mystery short story
- “The Hob” by Judith Moffett. Science fiction short story
- “The Tryouts” by Barry B. Longyear. Science fiction short story
- “The Open Window” by Saki. Ghost short story
- “Off the Face of the Earth” by Clayton Rawson. Mystery short story
- The Uninvited by Dorothy Macardle. Paranormal mystery novel
- The Father Hunt by Rex Stout. Mystery novel
- Plot It Yourself by Rex Stout. Mystery novel
Without giving the ending away, tell me which books or shows are your favorite because of the ending.
