The purpose of the program is to showcase the talent of young writers and promote creative expression. The awards ceremony recognizes middle school authors of poetry, short stories, and essays on the theme “My Culture.” A winner is selected in each of the three entry categories for each grade level. Winning authors will present their work to the audience of parents, teachers, and school administrators.

An anthology of the winners’ works is professionally published and presented to the winners as well. The anthology will also be added to MCPL collections as well as the collections at each middle school. Additionally, the publication is for sale at the awards ceremony and online through Amazon.com.

At the ceremony honoring their achievement, students have an opportunity to engage with local authors and professionals in the creative writing and humanities fields. Afterwards, the winners and their families are invited to a buffet-style dinner featuring cuisine from the winners’ cultures and countries of origin.