Young Writers Invited to Showcase Talent in Annual Contest

The Center for the Arts has announced the launch of the sixth annual Teen Writers Contest, inviting young writers aged 12 to 18 to submit their creative works. This initiative aims to celebrate artistic expression among the youth in the region, providing a platform for them to showcase their talents in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.

Participants from Andover, Bradford, Danbury, Grantham, New London, Newbury, Newport, Springfield, Sunapee, Sutton, Warner, and Wilmot are encouraged to take part. The contest not only highlights the importance of creative writing but also fosters a vibrant community of emerging artists.

Tom Coverdale, a recently retired educator with a distinguished career spanning 37 years, will serve as the judge for this year’s contest. Coverdale has extensive experience teaching Advanced Placement literature and composition, along with involvement in theater, speech, and both fiction and nonfiction writing. His contributions to Fine Arts journals and directing theatrical productions further underscore his qualifications.

Writers can submit entries in three categories: short fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Each category aims to provide a distinct avenue for self-expression, allowing participants to convey their unique perspectives and voices. Winners in each category will have the opportunity to present their works at an awards ceremony scheduled for January and will also be published in the Center for the Arts’ Teen Writers Project journal.

Submissions are open until December 15, 2025. Interested participants can find detailed genre requirements and submission guidelines on the Center for the Arts’ website at www.centerfortheartsnh.org/teen-writers-contest.

This contest represents a significant opportunity for young writers to gain visibility and recognition while connecting with their peers and the broader community. The Center for the Arts is committed to nurturing young talent and believes in the profound impact of youth voices in the literary landscape.