For a third consecutive year, the Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF) is challenging young writers to tell an original story using only two sentences. The theme of this year’s contest is “Love,” and entrants are encouraged to write about anything that evokes that sentiment for them.

CLiF’s Two-Sentence Story Contest is free to enter and open to all Vermont and New Hampshire children ages 12 and younger. The winning submission in each of four age groups will be awarded a five-book mini-library curated to the recipient’s reading level and interests.

“We see this contest as a really fun exercise that encourages children to think creatively,” CLiF Executive Director Laura Rice said. “Writing is, of course, an essential literacy skill, and we love reading the imaginative stories the kids come up with!”

Last year’s contest, held in the weeks leading up to the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, asked children to “tell a story that takes place in the sky.” CLiF received over 900 entries. In 2023, the inaugural Two-Sentence Story Contest challenged young writers to “tell a story about winter,” and drew over 700 entries.

For full contest guidelines, as well as free supplementary materials for educators and caregivers, please visit clifonline.org/clifs-2025-two-sentence-story-contest. Entries must be received by email or postmarked by March 14. Email submissions to [email protected] or addressed them to CLiF Two-Sentence Story Contest, 3579 Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT 05677.