January 5, 2021 – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 is excited to participate once again in the annual Young Authors Program. Young Authors fosters creativity and writing skills and has been a valued program throughout the country for many years.
All students in grades K-8 are encouraged to participate by writing an original story to submit for competition. Winners are selected to attend the Madison County Young Authors Conference held in Edwardsville on April 29th, 2022. In addition, both state and county winners are invited to attend a Young Authors’ Tea in the spring at Collinsville Middle School. Authors of the winning books will receive further information on these opportunities.
CLICK HERE for a printable copy of the official rules and the manuscript card that must be included in all entries. Books are due to child’s teacher by January 28th, 2022.
The CUSD 10 Young Authors Program is coordinated by Mrs. Stephanie Pulse, Principal of Jefferson & Summit Schools, who said, “Our committee looks forward to reading the exciting adventures written by the children of Collinsville this year!”
2021-2022 Young Authors Guidelines 2021-22
● The manuscript identification card MUST be complete and attached to the front, inside cover of every book in order for it to be considered for advancement. (Click HERE for a printable copy of the rules – including manuscript identification card.)
● Books by three or more children will not be accepted. Books authored/illustrated by pairs of students will be accepted; however, co-authored/illustrated entries will count as two of the district/school allotment of entries.
● Due to issues with copyright laws, stories with copyrighted characters will not be allowed. (Ex. Spongebob, Superman, Batman, Legos, etc.)
● Dictated books may be typed or handwritten by an adult, but must be in the student’s own language.
● Manuscripts must have a substantial cover with pages securely attached. The title of the book and the author’s name is placed on the cover, as well as an illustration.
● Books need a title page including the title of the book, the author, a fictitious publishing company, and the copyright date (year).
● Books need a dedication page and an author’s page which may include information such as the author’s age, grade, likes, and hobbies. You may attach a picture to this page.
● Pages are numbered in the center on the bottom of each page and illustrations appear throughout the book.
● Should a book advance, parents will be responsible for transporting their children to and from the conferences.
● Books are due to teachers by January 28, 2022.
Have Fun and Be Creative!