Kids are born storytellers, and WFYI is providing a way for those who like to write and illustrate to be recognized for their creativity. Kindergarten through third graders are invited to write and illustrate original storybooks and enter them in the 15th Annual Reading Rainbow Young Writers & Illustrators Contest. The contest begins January 5, 2009. All entries must be postmarked by March 27, 2009

All contest entries are judged on originality, creative expression, storytelling and integration of copy and illustrations. The contest judging panel is comprised of educators, artists, librarians and early childhood specialists. WFYI received nearly 400 contest entries in last year's competition.

Every child who enters the contest will receive a special Certificate of Achievement signed by LeVar Burton, host of Reading Rainbow. Local winners will receive a Reading Rainbow DVD and a book during WFYI’s Let’s Meet PBS KIDS in the Park event in June. The local first place winners advance to the national competition.

To see previous national winners’ stories and a sampling of submissions, visit pbskids.org/readingrainbow.

Contest Questions: Contact Christy Prulhiere at (317) 614-0471; or email.

Prizes:
National prizes are awarded to three winning stories in each grade. Prizes for the national competition shall be awarded for each grade level as follows:

• – The first place winner in each grade level shall receive Flat Panel TV with DVD Player.
• – The second place winner in each grade level shall receive a Digital Camera.
• – The third place winner in each grade level shall receive an MP3 player.