WATERBURY CENTER — The Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF) announces the launch of its second annual Two-Sentence Writing Contest. Open to all Vermont and New Hampshire children aged 12 and under, the contest is free to enter, and prizes will be awarded to top submissions in each of four categories. 

This year’s contest challenges young writers to “tell a two-sentence story that takes place in the sky.” Loosely tied to the upcoming total eclipse on April 8, the contest draws inspiration from the stories and legends ancient civilizations invented to explain sky phenomena. 

CLiF’s inaugural Two-Sentence Writing Contest, held in February 2023, asked young writers to tell a story about winter, and drew over 700 submissions from across the Twin States. 

“The range of creative expression demonstrated by the stories was truly amazing,” said CLiF Project Specialist Mary Edith Leichliter. “With just two sentences to work with, it’s incredible what kids can come up with. We had comedy, horror, tragedy, sci-fi…you name it. We can’t wait to read the stories generated by this year’s theme!”

The categories for this year’s contest are divided as follows: kindergarten and below; grades 1 and 2; grades 3 and 4; and grades 5 and 6. The winner of each category will receive a five-book library from CLiF, curated to their age and interests. 

Additional details about the contest and a downloadable entry template can be found on CLiF’s website at www.clifonline.org/writing-contest-2024. Entries must be received by email ([email protected]) or mail (CLiF Writing Contest, 3579 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677) by March 29, 2024. Winners will be announced in early April.