Amita Basu — Excerpt: If the meeting will be headed by your CEO, dean, or other bigshot, prepare yourself — slip into the bathroom, turn to the mirror, and practise your best fake, fawning smile.

James Sennott and Alba Blanco — Excerpt: “Boss said I could have a smoke break, as long as none of those damn kids see me,” he muttered to himself.

Brian Christopher Giddens — Excerpt: Otto went through two brooms a season, and multiple pairs of jeans due to holes in the knees.

Mark Daniel Taylor — Excerpt: Well, Mister Bubbles, have you ever heard of the theory that time is relative?

Anthony Kane Evans — Excerpt: No, I mean he walked into an advertising hoarding, some hair product or other, and I think he has a minor concussion.