Short-Story Competition to Encourage Young Local Writers
Published on 15 August 2024
Mount Isa City Library Assistant Kaitlin Ryan is encouraging local young writers to take part in the Reading is Magic Short Story Competition.
The Mount Isa City Library has launched a short-story competition it hopes will foster a love of reading and writing among local kids.
The Reading is Magic Short Story Competition opened on July 22 and will run until Friday, August 23. It is open to children aged nine to 18 and is being held as part of Children’s Book Week 2024.
“Children’s Book Week has always helped encourage and promote a love for reading, especially within the Mount Isa City Library. This year, we wanted to take a different approach and let kids craft their own stories and join in on the magic of storytelling,” Library Assistant Kaitlin Ryan said.
“Entrants can write about anything they want, so long as it comes back to the theme of ‘magic’.
“They could write wild stories about colourful wizards, dragons, or princesses, casting spells, or the normal everyday kind of magic that comes with seeing something amazing.”
She encouraged local children to have a go at writing a short story – up to 2500 words in length – and submitting it for the competition. Submissions can be done online at https://forms.gle/9kAEJryLCkpXB6xk8, or by dropping it in at the library, 23 West Street.
There are three age categories – nine to 11 years; 12 to 14 years; and 15 to 18 years. From each category, two winners will be selected. Winners will each receive a small gift hamper, and their stories will be on display in the library for people to read.
“This gives our entrants a chance to really shine with their short-story skills. One of the best feelings of writing a story is having people read it, and we want to give our winners that opportunity,” Ms Ryan said.
“Creative writing and storytelling is an amazing outlet for all ages, children and teenagers especially. It helps with communication skills, develops analytical thinking, strengthens language skills, and improves mental wellbeing by promoting self-esteem and mindfulness.
“Just like reading, storytelling is something that can be used both in school and out of school and can be a very valuable skill to have.”
Earlier this year, the library launched the Young Writers’ Group, which aims to give young people a safe environment in which to connect with others who enjoy writing and learn about different aspects of writing.
The writers’ group has seen a regular turnout of creative and engaged young people of all ages and all skill levels, with members having an increased interest in short stories.
For more information about what programs and activities are available at the library, visit www.mountisa.qld.gov.au/library or call them on 4747 3350.