Montrose student’s writing to be published by Young Writers USA

Elizabeth’s entry responds to a prompt by the organization called “Unsolved: Five Minute Fiction.” The chilling theme and the entry date around Halloween inspired Elizabeth’s hair-raising short story of a narrator who hears the voices of the dead when others can’t. But, she says, the story is also a response to the chaos of the world today and the benefit all people can feel by quieting their minds.

“Maybe we should take a step back from that and take moments to reflect and not be overwhelmed by mindless chatter,” Elizabeth contemplated. 

This is Elizabeth’s first publication, and she credits senior Jennifer Uche for inspiring her to participate. Elizabeth and Jennifer are both members of the Montrose Walrus Creative Writing Club. Jen brought the contest to Elizabeth’s attention and encouraged her to enter. Elizabeth, in turn, encourages others to give writing contests a try. She found having a focus and entry requirement gave her the freedom to write quickly and with purpose. 

“It’s not a big commitment,” she says. “But you can express your feelings.”

The Walrus is one of more than 30 clubs available to Montrose students, where members benefit from working alongside students of all grade levels, deepening both their co curricular and leadership skills as well we their relationships with one another and, by extension, strengthening the school community.

A family-run business established in Eastern England in 1991, Young Writers USA focuses on “encouraging young writers to read, write and enjoy poetry as well as creative writing.” “Having work published,” its website notes, “boosts confidence, nurtures creative talent and showcases creativity.”