Adults across the Wheatland Regional Library system are being encouraged to unleash their creativity through a region-wide short story competition.
The contest, which runs from Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, is open to anyone 18 or older living in the Wheatland region. Entries must be original, titled stories of no more than 2,000 words, typed and double-spaced.
A panel of Saskatchewan authors will judge the submissions, including University of Saskatchewan professor and author Dwayne Brenna, Saskatoon memoirist Marilyn Frey, and short story writer and librarian Theressa Slind.
Judges will evaluate stories based on plot development, style, originality, structure and mechanics.
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"There isn't always an opportunity for adults to get creative," said Miriam Salvador, program manager for the Wheatland Regional Library. "This let's them connect with their creative side."
Kristin Kuffner, a Kindersley-based author, said she sees the contest as a valuable exercise for writers at any stage.
"Contests like these are great for anyone who wants to push themselves creatively, hone their skills, or break out of a creative slump," said Kuffner. "A restricted word count can help writers, both old and new, practice the skill of storytelling. It isn't easy to tell a coherent narrative in 2000 words!"
Prizes will be awarded to the top three stories. First place will receive a Kobo Clara e-reader, while second and third place winners will get $75 and $50 McNally Robinson gift cards, respectively. Winners will be announced Dec. 5.
Entries can be submitted by email to programmanager@westland.sk.ca.