Secretary of State Jesse White encourages student readers to enter the "Letters About Literature in Illinois"reading and writing competition.
The competition is being offered by the Illinois State Library's Illinois Center for the Book and is for students in grades fourth through 12th.
Organizers invite students to read a book of their choice and write a letter to the author about how the work changed their life or view of the world.
Students may enter directly through a local participating school or on their own.
"Every year, thousands of student in Illinois enjoy participating in this inspiring competition," said White.
There will be three levels of participation.
The deadline for submission is Thursday, December 15, 2022.
One winner will be selected from each level.
Winners will receive a cash award and plaque signed by the Secretary of State.
Winners will be announced near the end of the 2022-2023 academic year.
Entry forms are available at https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/library/center_for_the_book/