The competition is aimed at learners aged between nine to 13 and 14 to 17. It draws to a close on 28 August. Budding writers who haven’t yet submitted their stories are encouraged to do so. The assignment is to write a story about an environmental hero, either as a short or long-form story, graphic novel, picture book or novel.
To assist learners, writing workshops were held at numerous libraries, creating opportunities for learners to acquire writing skills and be better prepared to enter the competition.
Thus far, there have been 60 entries from 17 libraries. Stories can be submitted in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa.
The winning submissions will be announced at the Open Book Festival on the 7 September 2024, and will either be published, or loaded onto the Library Service’s Libby app.
Many book clubs also participated – including the Boundless Ambitious Bookworms of Mfuleni library, where all the members entered stories.
‘Our libraries are constantly devising new ways of attracting different audiences, and providing opportunities to unlock potential. I want to applaud them for this writing competition, and I hope to see it grow from strength to strength each year. I want to thank the learners who have already made their submissions, and encourage others to get involved before the deadline. This is an amazing opportunity to develop writing skills and possibly earn a reward on a very big stage,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.
Learners who would like to enter can submit their stories before 28 August to PSP.Libraries@capetown.gov.za
