The Things We Almost Say
There is a language
spoken only in half-glances,
in the weight of a pause
just before someone smiles.
Young Writers Project
The Daily Read
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River
Through the knotweed. Down the ladder made of tree roots. Up onto the big rock. By the river. I stand, mud on my ankle and cuts on my knees. The sun sits just barely above the trees as the sweat sits just above my brow.
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fall in
past the burning day,
at bedtime when I shrug off sleep,
When I've got school the next morning, and I shouldn't be here,
Gallery
Spotlight
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.
Challenges
Visual Art
Deadline
Tree
Create the most beautiful tree you can imagine.
Writing
Deadline
Time Period
Choose a time period that interests you and write a story about the way you would live in that time. What would your life be like?
Writing
Deadline
Thanksgiving
If you celebrate Thanksgiving, or you don't, write about this holiday's meaning to you.
Visual Art
Mother Nature
Compose an appreciation of nature in the artistic medium of your choice.
Writing
Life gifts
"Little, nameless, unremembered, acts of kindness and of love." Can you think of a time, person, or place that brings William Wordsworth's words to life for you?
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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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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The Tomorrow Project: Award Winners and Launch of Phase 2
The first phase of The Tomorrow Project is complete and we're delighted to honor the writers and artists whose work exemplifies the goals of the project – to explore the issues of today with hope for tomorrow. Phase 2 runs November 2025 to May 2026!
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The Tomorrow Project Phase 2: Monthly Contests
YWP's Tomorrow Project continues with monthly contests, exhibits, and publication!
