Short and Scary Writing Contest

Sponsored by the Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library

Read the 2024 Kids’ Ink magazine here!

For Grade K-8

Submissions are now closed. The deadline for entries was Monday, Oct. 7 • 9 p.m.

Scare us with your own original super-short story or poem. Create a scary work that’s 15 sentences or less. Winners get a Barnes & Noble gift certificate, a spot in our Kids’ Ink magazine, and the opportunity to read their entry live in the Library on Saturday, Oct. 26.

Enter using the form below. All submissions must be entered online.

Requirements:

• All entries must be the original work of the student. Parents may transcribe a young child’s entry.
• Students are limited to one entry, either story or poem.
• Entries must be 15 sentences or less.
• No weapons may be used in the story.

Judging Criteria:

Creativity and originality of entry. Illustrations are not included in judging criteria. Punctuation and grammar will not be judged. Winners will be notified the week of October 14.

Prizes:

Winners get a Barnes & Noble gift card, publication in Elmhurst Public Library’s Kids’ Ink magazine and the opportunity to read their entry live in the Library on Sunday, Oct. 26.

How to Enter:

This contest is open to all students in grades K-8 with an Elmhurst Public Library card or attending an Elmhurst school. Entries must be received by Monday, October 7 by 9 p.m. to qualify.   Submissions open on Sept. 1. Starting Sept. 1, submit your entry using the form below. All entries become the property of the Elmhurst Public Library and may be posted on the Library’s website and/or social media.

2024 submissions are now closed.