May 2012 Update: Check out the first-ever audio posting of Featured Poet MARK TURCOTTE'S reciting his work! Click HERE.

Co-sponsored by the Illinois Center for the Book, the Illinois State Library, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, and the Illinois Poet Laureate, this competition identifies outstanding Illinois emerging poets and fiction writers. Its purpose is to reward emerging writers -- that is, those who've not yet published a book but who stand on the cusp of greater artistic accomplishment.

The contest winner receives a $500 award, the runner-up earns $300, and the third place awardee garners $100. In addition, each recipient receives an award plaque.  Four Illinois literary journals -- Ninth Letter, Another Chicago Magazine, Downstate Story, and Rhino -- consider the winning works for possible publication.

Details on how to enter the Illinois Emerging Writers Competition GO >>