Student Writing Contest
The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society (PSFS) invites students in grades 5-12 to enter its 2006 short story contest. Eligible students are those who are (a) currently enrolled in any Philadelphia public or private school, or (b) are members of the 2006 Philadelphia Science Fiction Conference (Philcon). Eligible stories are in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.
Separate winners may be awarded in two divisions: Middle School (grades 5-8) and High School (9-12).
Each division will have up to two winners: first place and second place. The cash prizes are $100 for first place, and $50 for second place. Each of the four possible winners will also receive two memberships to Philcon 2006. Should a winner already be a member, the memberships may be transferred to Philcon 2007.
Stories should be 1,000 words or less for grades 5-8, and 3,000 words or less for grades 9-12. Each contestant may submit only one story which must be accompanied by a copy of the submission form (PDF, 10 kB).
The author's name should appear only once on the story, directly under the title on the first page.
Stories must be postmarked or sent electronically by midnight on Friday, October 13, 2006. Send them by mail to:
Short Story Contest
Philadelphia Science Fiction Society
P.O. Box 8303
Philadelphia, PA 19101
or by e-mail to: .
Stories will be judged by members of the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society.
No first or second prize will be awarded in either division should the judges deem that no story is deserving of a prize. No second prize will be awarded in either division unless (a) there are three or more entries in that age group; or (b) the judges feel that the story is of such exceptional merit to deserve the prize.
Prizes will be awarded at the Philcon Business Meeting on Friday, November 17, at 8:00 p.m. Winners will be notified in advance. Winners are welcome to bring guests to the award ceremony.