Vanessa Reading Council honors young authors at 2025 writing contests

On May 29, 2025, the Writers' Assembly in New York celebrated the achievements of young writers through various contests aimed at fostering creativity and recognizing talent in literature. The event, organized by the Vanessa Reading Council, highlighted the importance of reading instruction and professional development in schools.

One of the key highlights was the Young Authors Contest, where students crafted personal narratives in prose or poetry. The winners, including Thea Fulton, Anna Maley, Kiersten Marshat, Olga, Sofia Gopeluk, and Dylan Tanzi, were honored for their emotional storytelling, showcasing their ability to connect with readers on a personal level.

Additionally, the assembly recognized participants of the 2025 Young Writers Mini Saga Contest, which challenged students to create thrilling stories in under 100 words. The published works of Isabella Chung, Liam Connolly, Emily Shi, Lisa Wu, and Jacqueline Zheng were celebrated, emphasizing the creativity and brevity of their narratives.

The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) also presented its Achievement Awards in Writing, aimed at high school students. This year's prompt focused on the healing power of literature, encouraging students to explore how books can provide solace and understanding. Winners Sofia Chainani, Sharon Wang, Grace Punzalan, Nathaniel Seabird, Dylan Tanzi, and Sophia Obelak were recognized for their impactful writing, reflecting the profound connection between literature and personal identity.

For eighth graders, the NCTE Promising Young Writers Contest invited students to ponder the question, "Where are you from?" This prompt encouraged exploration of identity and community. Winners included Marie Kong, Arnaik Anand, and Sophia Sharaf, who demonstrated exceptional creativity and insight in their responses.

The Writers' Assembly not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also reinforced the vital role of writing and literature in shaping young minds. As the event concluded, it left attendees with a sense of hope and inspiration for the future of writing among youth, highlighting the ongoing commitment to nurturing literary talent in the community.