Teen Writing Contest 2024

Published on October 08, 2024

typewriter design with words that say teen writing contest

By Hannah V.

Siouxland Libraries is celebrating National Novel Writing Month. Start your journey by writing the first chapter of your book and entering it in our Teen Writing Contest. Stories may be based on a real experience, fiction, or a blend of both.

Contest Theme: The First Chapter

a leather journal, a mug, and a calligraphy set

Rules:

1. Open to grades 6-12

2. Stories must be rated PG or PG-13

3. 1000 words or fewer

First-, second- and third-place winners will be selected from three age groups―grades 6-7, grades 8-9, and grades 10-12―based on the following criteria:

  • Plot
  • Characters
  • Use of language
  • Grammar/syntax
  • Adherence to rules

Submissions open November 1 and will be accepted through November 30. Submit stories using the form linked here (the form will go live on November 1). Entries must include name, grade, school, and phone number or email. Only one entry per participant will be accepted. Entries may have more than one author (only one prize per entry will be awarded.)

Stories by all winners will be posted on Siouxland Libraries website and social media pages.

By submitting your story, you agree to the following:

  • You grant Siouxland Libraries the right to publish the story on its website and social media pages.
  • If you are under 18, you have parental permission for Siouxland Libraries to share your works online.
  • Submissions must be original stories, and any form of plagiarism or AI generated material will result in immediate disqualification.
  • If using direct quotes, please use proper citation. If writing fan fiction, please state your source material.

For any questions or issues, email Library.Teen@siouxfalls.gov with the subject line "Teen Writing Contest." Winners will be contacted in advance of a public announcement on the Siouxland Libraries website and social media pages on Wednesday, December 11.

Prizes:

To be eligible for a prize, you must reside in Siouxland Libraries’ service area. Prizes may be picked up at any Siouxland Libraries branch. Only one prize per entry will be awarded.

First-place prize: Journal

leather journal with a tree on the cover

Second-place prize: Fancy Mug

mug that says

Third-place prize: Calligraphy Pen Set

calligraphy pet set

 

Need time to write? Check out one of these programs dedicated to writing:

NaNoWriMo Write-ins:

Each Sunday in November, 2-3 p.m. at the Ronning Branch

It’s National Novel Writing Month! Dedicate time each Sunday in to write your story. Spark creativity with prompts, snacks, NaNoWriMo merch, and discussion with fellow writers. We hope you'll attend as many as you're able.

Teen Writing Club:

First Sundays, 2-3 p.m. at the Ronning Branch

Dedicate time to hone your skills, collaborate on group activities, and discuss ideas with fellow writers.

 

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