La Plume Young Writers contest is now open

Last year's winner

The eighth annual La Plume Young Writers’ Contest is now accepting applications from Miami Dade students in grades 3-12.

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 & 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 August 19 for review by a panel of judges that include published writers, editors, actors, journalists, librarians, educators/professors, and other artists. The award ceremony and book signing will be held in December presided over by a guest speaker from the literary world. The awards ceremony 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 and 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 laplumecontest.com or at Miami Conservatory of Music at 2911 Grand Avenue (end of the Mayfair Promenade). The deadline to register is May 31, 2019, midnight, and there is a $10 application fee.

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