League sponsors writing contest

The Ozarks Writers League invites youth in grades seven through 12 to enter their Youth Writing Contest. There is no entry fee. Prizes are: first place $25, second $15 and third $10. Categories are No. 21 Fictional Short Story, any genre, any topic with a 2,000 word limit; and No. 22 Poetry, any form, 26-line limit. Only one entry per category. All entries must be unpublished and the original work of the writer. If it has appeared in a blog, website or other electronic outlet, it is considered published and cannot be entered in this contest.

Entries may be typed or handwritten, double-spaced (except poetry single-spaced), on 8 ½-inch by 11-inch white paper using black ink. Attach a 3-inch by 5-inch index card with a paperclip to the top entry in each category with the number and name of the category, title of the entry, and name, address, phone, email, current grade and school attending or homeschooled. Do not write name on any part of the entry. Staple multiple pages together. Mail two copies of each entry in a large flat envelope postmarked by Nov. 30 to Diana West, Contest Chair, 108 Parkmor Road, Joplin, MO 64801. Winners will be announced in February.

The Ozarks Writers League meets four times a year in Branson to inspire, encourage and challenge members to become better writers. Speakers have included editors, publishers and agents from New York as well as the Midwest.

Information: ozarkswritersleague.com.