La Plume Young Writers’ Contest now open

The fifth annual La Plume Young Writers’ Contest is now accepting applications from Miami Dade students in grades 3-12. Above, the Honor Group from last year shows off their awards.

Writers may submit their typed story on a theme of their choice relevant to their age and grade level. The Grand Prize winners will have their story published and receive $150 to $350, depending on the level. All winners including 1st, 2nd and 3rd places will be awarded cash prizes, special gifts and creative writing workshops.

Students will write their stories during the summer to be submitted by Monday, August 31 for review by a panel of judges that include published writers, editors, actors, journalists, librarians, educators/professors, and other artists. Winners will be announced on October 28. The award ceremony and book signing will be held on Saturday, November 21 presided over by a guest speaker from the literary world. It is free and open to the public.

La Plume contest was created by Miami Conservatory of Music, MCA Academy, and the Bookstore in the Grove in 2011 to encourage young writers to express themselves and to provide an opportunity for students to have their work evaluated professionally and published.

“La Plume was so well received that we are now reaching out to all the Miami Dade students,” says Brigitte Kishlar, founder & president of Miami Conservatory of Music, and founder of MCA academy.  “Every year, students with different backgrounds and cultures submit very original and engaging compositions we are proud to publish. Plus we continue to nurture these young writers with Creative Writing Workshops we offer them along the year.”

Applications and rules are available online at www.laplumecontest.com as well as at the Bookstore in the Grove (Corner of Virginia & Grand) or at Miami Conservatory of Music at 2911 Grand Avenue (end of the Mayfair Promenade). The deadline to register is June 7, 2015, midnight, and there is a $10 application fee.

For more information, please call 305-442-2283 or visit www.laplumecontest.com