The movie Marley & Me is about the world’s most outrageous and out of control dog. It begs the question, what can this dog possibly be thinking? In an effort to encourage children to exercise their literary skills, Twentieth Century Fox and Weekly Reader are holding the “Marley & Me Creative Writing Contest” for students in grades seven through nine.
The contest will give children the opportunity to express themselves, in 300 words or less, as they write an original story from the point of view of an animal. Submissions will be judged on creativity and originality, relevance to contest theme, language mechanics (grammar and spelling), and adherence to contest rules.
The grand prize winner will receive a $2,000 Best Buy gift card and have a $500 donation made in their name to the animal charity of their choice. One first prize winner will receive an $800 Best Buy gift card and one second prize winner will receive a $500 Best Buy gift card. Five runners up will receive $50 Best Buy gift cards. Teachers who encourage their students to enter are also eligible to win prizes.
The deadline for submissions is January 30. A completed entry form must accompany each submission, and students must have a parent or legal guardian’s permission to enter. One entry per student. Winners will be notified on or around April 3. To enter, or for more information, visit www.weeklyreader.com/marley.
