Cape Town Libraries launch exciting writing competition for young authors

The City of Cape Town’s Library and Information Services is excited to announce the return of its much-anticipated writing competition for children aged nine to 13. Following the success of last year’s competition, which focused on environmental awareness and received entries from over 100 talented young writers, the City is once again inviting primary schools, book clubs, and aspiring authors to participate. This year, the winners will be celebrated at the Open Book Festival on 6 September 2025.

The theme for this year's competition promises to spark curiosity and creativity among participants. Entrants are asked to imagine a scenario where they stumble upon a mysterious box hidden between the shelves of their school or local library. This box, adorned with strange symbols and emitting a faint humming sound, is the starting point for a magical adventure that contestants will describe in their short stories. Participants will be challenged to explore what happens when they finally open this enigmatic box, allowing their imaginations to run wild.

"Writing provides a creative outlet and helps children to organise their thoughts and emotions," said  Francine Higham, the Mayco Member for Community Services and Health.

"By putting pen to paper, they learn a new way to communicate and express themselves. Our children are creative, with vivid imaginations, and I’m sure the judges will have a hard time picking a winner. I want to encourage all our learners to participate, as they could very well write their way to a future as authors."

Entries will be open from Monday, 5 May until Friday, 8 August 2025. Competition submissions must adhere to a set of criteria designed to inspire originality and creativity:

• Word limit: Between 500 and 1,500 words
• Must be an original story—no AI-generated stories will be accepted
• Entries must be submitted in handwritten form.
• Stories can take the form of a picture book, short/long story, or graphic novel
• Encouragement for drawings and illustrations throughout the work

Key elements to include in the stories are:

• A mysterious box in a library setting
• A magical adventure
• A relatable main character or object

Entrants are reminded to unleash their imagination and creativity while keeping their work original. Points will be awarded for artistic presentations, including illustrations and drawings. “Most importantly—have fun.” Higham said, adding a supportive nudge to budding writers.

Students interested in participating can submit their stories via email to   psp.libraries@capetown.gov.za or drop them off at their nearest library. As young authors prepare to embark on this literary journey, the City of Cape Town is eager to witness the incredible imaginations that will unfold through their words.