Young Readers and Writers Programs

Humanities Tennessee presents three programs for young people that promote and nurture the importance and joy of reading and writing: The Letters about Literature contest for 4th-12th graders,  The Tennessee Young Writers' Workshop for 7th-12th graders, and Student Reader Days for all ages.

The Tennessee Young Writers' Workshop provides students who have completed grades 7–12 the opportunity to explore their interest in writing and devote time to the development of their writing skills with accomplished authors in a supportive environment. The TYWW is residential and takes place on a college campus during one full week in July.  Learn more about the TYWW here...  

Or follow the TYWW Youtube Channel here...

The Letters About Literature (LAL) contest encourages students in grades 4–12 think critically and read and write reflectively. Participants are asked to write a letter to the author of a fiction or nonfiction book, a short story, poem, essay or speech (sorry, no song lyrics) they have read and about which he or she has strong feelings. Explore those feelings and why you reacted the way you did during or after reading and write about it. Read more...

Student Reader Day events bring young readers and writers together with the goal of offering good literature, critical thinking, and discussion opportunities to elementary, middle, and high school classrooms across the state. Authors are sent to schools, free of charge, for unique presentations and to encourage connections between reader and author. Read more..