Young writers, to your quills

The competition run by the Neilson Hays Library draws an enthusiastic response every year, with 178 students at 44 schools entering this year. 
It’s open to students ages 10 to 18 who can author a short story or write and illustrate a children’s picture book – in English.
Entries must be in by February 28.
The theme for the contest, which is chaired by MR Narisa Chakrabongse, is “Wonder”.
Entrants can work solo or on a team of up to three students, except in Category E, which is only for individuals. 
Category A is for original picture books – no more than 20 pages and 500 words – by authors who are 12 years and under, from Thai or bilingual schools
Category B is the same but for students at international schools.
Category C is for original picture books – no more than 24 pages and 800 words – by students 16 years and under, in Thai and bilingual schools
Category D is the same, but for international schools
Category E is for original short stories – no more than 1,500 words – by students 18 years and under, attending any kind of school.
On the judging panel are acting coach Onchuma Yuthavong, SEAWrite Award winner Ngarmpun Vejjajiva, writer-illustrator Gee Svasti Thomson, journalist and author of “Finding George Orwell in Burma” Emma Larkin, and author of “The Little Blue Tuk-Tuk” Janice Santikarn.
Finalists will get to attend a workshop at Chakrabongse Villa, where the judges and other published writers and illustrators will critique their work and offer tips. Chaiporn Panichrutiwong, director and animator of “Yak: The Giant King”, and Cod Satrusayang, managing editor of the Asia News Network, will also participate.
The winners will hear their work read aloud at a public ceremony by prominent literary and art figures. They’ll receive certificates and Bt10,000 in cash. Canadian Ambassador Donica Pottie will also present a Bt10,000 prize
Find out more at (02) 233 1731 or NeilsonHaysLibrary.org. The entry form is available at goo.gl/fsrkQR.