The Vernon Friends of the Library, the Vernon writer-in-residence and the staff at the Vernon library are pleased to present the silver lining to February’s flooding, with two writing contests, one for kids and one for adults.
The Orange Story Tent writing contest is for kids in three categories: ages eight and under; ages nine to 11 and ages 12 to 15.
“The Vernon branch of Okanagan Regional Library is very orange these days,” said ORL communications manager Michele Rule. “Big orange tarps cover most of the first floor. What is going on behind them? Is the world becoming orange? Are all the books going to taste like oranges now? Are the words extra juicy? Are the workmen building something extra special for us back there? Is it going to be a zoo full of orange animals? Only you can tell us, with your imagination.”
If you are a kid age 15 or under, the library wants your stories and your poems, and your drawings of the world behind the big orange tent.
And if you need help, drop in Mondays after school or anytime you want to come by and talk to the library’s writer-in-residence, Harold Rhenisch.
“He’s helped a lot of young writers and many young adult and children’s authors, and he is waiting to help you this March and April at the library.”
Drop off your stories at the information desk or by e-mailing svollick@orl.bc.ca. Deadline to enter is April 30 at 9 p.m.
The Hope Project is the writing contest for adults.
Do you have a story of renewal, rebirth or revival?
“To celebrate our renewal after the flood of the winter freeze of 2014, the Vernon library wants to help you bring it to the world,” said Rule. “We have prizes, an online magazine for publishing your work, a gala reading at the launch of the library on May 2, and all the help and encouragement you need from our writer- in-residence, Harold Rhenisch, to bring your story to the Okanagan and the world.
“Perhaps your story is about tragedy overcome, or new love, or the joy of childhood, faith found on the Camino, or a deep psychological tale only you can unfold. Maybe it’s historical. Maybe it’s lyrical, or funny as can be, or a mystery that leads to the light. Maybe it’s a short story. Maybe it’s an anecdote. Maybe it’s a poem. We know you have it in you, though.
“Let’s make a library of these stories to share. After all, spring is coming.”
Please submit your entries to khennings@orl.bc.ca. Deadline to enter is April 30 at 9 p.m.
There are plenty of prizes in store: for kids under eight, first place is a $50 gift certificate to a local book store; second place is a pop-up book making kit and storyworld kit; third place is two books and a spinner of crayons.
For kids ages nine to 11, first place is a $50 gift certificate to a local bookstore; second place is a pocket microscope, a book, and a writing notebook; third place is two books.
For ages 12 and up, first place is a Kobo eReader; second place is five books of your choice; third is two books of your choice
For adults, first place is $250 cash; second place is a Kobo Glo; third place is a $50 gift certificate to a local bookstore
As well, the Vernon Friends of the Library will provide every entry into the story contest a $5 coupon for their May book sale!
The Vernon library is at 2800-30th Ave. Remember, the library is open during the restorations, so please pop in and get inspired by the Orange Story Tent! For more information, please call 250-542-7610 or visit www.orl.bc.ca.
