A Teen Short Story Contest 2024: A World Without Books

Join San Diego Public Library's 2024 A Teen Writing Contest. All teens ages 12-18 in the San Diego County area are invited to submit a short story which will be judged by a panel of SDPL librarians.

This year's theme is a world without books.

This contest is limited to San Diego County youth in middle school and high school. Middle school and high school will be judged as separate categories.

• Entries should center around the theme of “a world without books” however one interprets it.
• Entries should be previously unpublished.
• Entries should be typed (preferred) or handwritten clearly and legibly.
  • Should you need to type your contest entry, you can come into any San Diego Public Library and use one of our public computers.
• All stories, regardless of format, should not include your name or any other personal identifying details as entries will be judged blind.
• Entries must be no more than 2,000 words and entirely the work of the author. No copyrighted characters or settings should be used in the work.
• Entries should be appropriate for a general audience.
• Every story must include a completed and signed submission form.
• By submitting an entry form, you give the San Diego Public Library permission to reproduce creative works resulting from your (or your child’s) participation in this contest.
• Entries can be submitted digitally (preferred) via e-mail to teenspace@sandiego.gov. They can also be turned in in person to your local San Diego Public Library. A signed entry form must be submitted with your short story.
• Entries must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
• Limit of one entry per person.

Entries will be judged on theme, style, voice, creativity, and technical proficiency.

Prizes for the top entries for each age group will be announced during Banned Book Week (September 22-28).

Authors will be invited to a reading/open mic at the Pauline Foster Teen Center on Thursday, September 26.