The Center for the Arts in New London recently announced the winners of the first CFA Teen Writers Project Competition. Students from the entire region submitted entries.
Luna Rae Landers is 14 years old, and in eighth grade at Kearsarge Regional Middle School. Luna is inspired to write by her friends and family, by reading good stories, and by challenging scenarios. Her story was inspired by her desire to go outside her comfort zone, writing from the perspective of someone struggling with mental health issues. Luna is especially inspired by her classmates and fellow authors in the Kearsarge Writing Club.
Other winners in this category are second place, Clar McIntyre; third place, McHale Cahill; Alaina Tilton and Evan Mernad.
“Writing has always been something I have loved to do. It helps me to express myself and put into words what I can’t find a way to say out loud. Simply put, words can help people connect and forge bonds of friendship even if they’re miles apart. Writing brings people together; what greater purpose is there than that? I want to create stories that make people feel. I want to move people with my words and help them see the world through a different lens. Overall, I’m inspired to write by the influence I know words can have on people; I want to weave stories that impact people’s lives and perhaps inspire them to learn more about themselves and the world around them.”
Other winners include second place, Eliza Cardillo and third place, Bella Foroohar.
“I write because it lets me experience things that could never happen in real life. Writing lets me see new or imagined places and meet fantastic people. It gives me a limitless freedom to do whatever I want and challenges me to create intriguing stories that people can relate to and enjoy.”
Other poetry winners include second place, Analiese Blasingame and third place, Zinnia McGowan.
For more information, visit cfanh.org/teen-writers.