2024 Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize & Writing Contest

The Brooklyn Public Library has opened up the applications for their 2024 Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize. The prize is open for teen writers in grades 6 – 12.

BPL’s Teen Writing Contest is a chance for local teens to showcase their work in a supportive environment and to win the Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize, an award to honor Ned and his literary legacy.

Poetry submissions should be no more than 250 words.  Prose submissions should be no more than 2500 words.

The Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize, a cash award that is the centerpiece of Brooklyn Public Library’s Teen Writing Contest, was launched in 2016. Ned was not only a tremendously gifted author – one who started writing professionally at age 15 – he was also a dedicated mentor to young writers.

More on the 2024 Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize

Participants and their families are invited to a celebration featuring student readings and a panel conversation between published young adult authors who share their experiences and advice with the aspiring writers. Top winners in poetry and prose will receive the Ned Vizzini Teen Writing Prize with a cash award, and have their pieces published in the Teen Writing Journal distributed by the Library.

A limited quantity of mini writing kits are available at branch libraries. Stop in for a notebook, pen, and a zine of writing prompts while supplies last.

Teens can apply to the writing contest HERE.