Creative Writing Competition for Youth Writers and the Chance to Win a Valuable Prizes from HPL

HPL is open the application for a writing competition; The 27th Power of the Pen competition. It invites writers ages 12-18, to submit original poetry and short stories in both English and/or French. You will get the opportunity for the prizes that are awarded for 1st and 2nd place in each of the seven age groups, in poetry and short story.

If you are among the winners, you will have:

• For English entries in each age category:

1. $250.
2. A certificate.
3. A copy of the Power of the Pen publication.
4. Each entry also qualifies for the Hamilton Association for the Advancement of Literature, Science, and Art (HAALSA):

• Maitland Banting Silver Quill award.
• Young Poet award. 
• For French entries in each age category:

1. The First Prize: $100.
2. The 2nd Prize: $25.
3. A certificate.
4. A copy of the Power of the Pen publication.

Please note: French entries are not included in the HAALSA prize selection.

You must follow the following criteria:

• Entrants must be between the ages of 12 and 18 and be a resident of Hamilton or a neighboring city.
• One poem and/or short story per person may be submitted in both the English and French categories. Each entry requires a separate entry form.
• If you are a teacher and submitting a short story or poem on behalf of a student, please ensure each written submission is accompanied by a completed official entry form.
• Short stories must not exceed 2,500 words in length. Poems may be any length.
• Entries should be typed, double-spaced and all pages numbered. Paper copies are required for mailed and hand-delivered submissions.
• Typed entries must be double-spaced, with font Arial or Times New Roman and size 11 or 12 points.
• Do not put your name anywhere on your work. Your name must be on the entry form only.
• All works submitted must be original. If it is fanfiction, the work of inspiration must be clearly named.
• Plagiarism will result in automatic disqualification.
• The decision of the judges is final.
• Winners who have submitted a hard copy of their entry should also provide a digital copy of their winning submission for publication.

Please note: Winners are notified in December 2021. 

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Selection Criteria:

Your work will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Originality.
2. Style.
3. General presentation.
4. Spelling and Grammar.

About HPL

The Hamilton Public Library, through its energetic board and staff, offers many convenient locations and hours, providing the citizens the Freedom to Discover. It aims to provide equitable access to and support for knowledge and creativity. Moreover, it supports inclusion by creating trusted services and spaces that welcome everyone as well as respond to changing needs and technology. 

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