The Big Bang
It all started with the big bang — the mighty "thwack"-ing noise that connected my body to the prickly embrace of the wood chips below. My descent from the jungle gym was far from graceful, solo mission "rescue Mr.
Young Writers Project
The Daily Read
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When I looked at my sister
Today I saw my sister
the way she used to be—
not because she changed,
but because I remembered.
She was just there,
messy with noodles,
doing nothing special at all.
And somehow
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the last waltz
this will be
the first
and the last
dance
we'll share
I'll be wearing pink
riding high on a childhood dream
waltzing
like it's 1945
Gallery
Spotlight
Tomorrow Project: November Award
Congratulations to Csquared, the November award winner in YWP's monthly Tomorrow Project contest! Read the winning piece, "Those Who Love Life!"
Challenges
Writing
Deadline
Snow
Write about how snow — the first snow, falling snow, heaps of snow, any kind of snow — makes you feel. Quiet, calm, happy, nostalgic?
Visual Art
Deadline
You
How do you see yourself? Make a drawing, a collage, a painting, or use any other preferred medium of art to celebrate yourself.
Writing
Deadline
Cinquain
A cinquain is similar to a haiku, being written in only five lines and restricting the number of syllables you can use. Write about anything that comes to mind, but make sure it’s in the form of a cinquain.
Writing
Deadline
Sen. Bernie Sanders' Annual Essay Contest
Vermont high school students: Write an essay about the state of the union for the Congressional Record.
Visual Art
Contrast
Contrasting colors, shapes, designs can make dramatic art. In photography or another artistic medium, illustrate a sense of contrast.
Writing
American Experiment
What does it mean to be American? Can we still find the answer in the Declaration of Independence — that each person has the equal right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?
News & Events
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The Tomorrow Project Phase 2: Monthly Contests
YWP's Tomorrow Project continues with monthly contests, exhibits, and publication!
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YWP's Annual Appeal: Support young writers and artists!
Donations allow us to provide all programs free of charge. Thank you for investing in our creative community!
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Where You Live: New York Times Photo Contest
YWP Photographers: Capture your hometown for a New York Times Contest! Go to YWP's Resources Page for more information. Deadline: Jan. 14, 2026.
