Teen and adult writers are invited to blend family lore with imagination, writing a fictitious entry into the diary of one of a grandparent (or similar ancestor). It can be from any time period and tell any story from their lives. This is a chance to share with readers the flavor and life of the people who helped shape you!
Entries are accepted until 7 p.m. Thursday, February 10. Entries can be completed
online through a Google Form. Alternate entry options include email or submitting in hard copy with a
printed entry form at a Salem Public Library Ask Me Desk. Forms are also available to pick up at Salem Public Library.
Cash prizes will be awarded in each of two categories: teen (grades 6-12) and adult (age 18+). Prizes are:
- 1st place - $50
- 2nd place - $30
- 3rd place - $20
Stories should be 200-800 words.Top entries will be read at a special awards and recognition event at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 26 on Zoom.
The Voices of the Past Writing Contest is a part of the
2022 Salem Reads: One Book, One Community, exploring
A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki. Additional activities and events are planned throughout the month of February 2022.
Guidelines for Entries
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Each writer may submit no more than 2 stories.
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Writers must live in the Salem area and/or attend a Salem area school.
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Stories must not exceed 800 words.
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Uploaded stories must be in PDF format.
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Work must be wholly original. Stories with plagiarized content will be disqualified from the contest.
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The title of the story must be printed at the top of each page.
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Each submission must be accompanied by a completed Google entry form. Your name should NOT appear anywhere on the story.
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Anyone unable to submit through the Google form has the option to (1) email the story and along with name, phone, and story title to [email protected] or (2) submit a hard copy of their story along with a printed entry form to any Salem Public Library Ask Me Desk.
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Each entry must be typed on 8.5" by 11" paper.
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Entries are judged on originality, voice, and overall impression.
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Stories will not be returned at the end of the contest.
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The decision of the judges is final.
