September

Writing Contest

September Writing Contest Entry Form

September Theme: “The Day Everything Changed”

Imagine a single moment when your world turned upside down — where something surprising, magical, or unexpected happened that changed everything forever. It could be a fantastical event, like animals suddenly speaking, or a real-life moment, like moving to a new town or making an important decision.

This month’s theme invites you to write a story about “The Day Everything Changed.” Show us how your characters react, how their lives are different afterward, and what they learn along the way. Use your imagination and don’t be afraid to take your story anywhere!

Every month brings a fresh theme and new story type — from mysteries to adventures, to heartfelt memoir-style writing — so you’ll always have something exciting to inspire your creativity.

📌 How It Works

  • Age Groups:

    • 6–8 years

    • 9–12 years

    • 13–17 years
      (Additional age brackets may be created based on the number of submissions.)

  • Format:

    • Typed stories only (for legibility).

    • Submit by uploading your document or pasting it directly into our online form.

  • Word Count Suggestion:

    • 6–8 years: 150–500 words

    • 9–12 years: 300–1,000 words

    • 13–17 years: 500–1,500 words

💰 Entry & Fundraising Options

  • Contest Entry Fee: $5 — grants eligibility for prizes and official judging within your age group.

  • Fundraiser-Only Option: Submit your story for inclusion in our end-of-month book and help raise funds without entering the contest.

  • Book Sales Fundraiser:

    • Each student whose story is included will receive a unique purchase link to share with family and friends.

    • Students keep 50% of the profits from sales made through their link.

    • Remaining funds support the educational goals of local families through SJHC.

    • Starting in January, SJHC members (including free members) can apply for these funds to use toward educational resources and activities.

🏆 Prizes

  • First Place in Each Age Group: Wins 50% of that group’s total entry fees as a cash prize.

  • Publication Perk: Winning and non-winning stories (with permission) will appear in the month’s book.

📅 Key Dates

  • Submissions Open: September 1

  • Submission Deadline: October 1

  • Winners Announced: October 15

  • Book Release: October 15

📋 Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated on:

  • Creativity & originality

  • Storytelling flow & structure

  • Connection to the theme “The Day Everything Changed”

  • Age-appropriate writing style and clarity

September Writing Contest Entry Form

Form submission is not started yet.