Island Books Hosts Mercer Island Poetry Contest

In honor of National Poetry Month, and the are co-sponsoring a poetry contest open to all ages.

"Let the muses speak through you in high-flown language or just use your own off-the-cuff voice, but send your poems our way so we can post them on our Poetry Pole," says a flier for the event.

The Poetry Pole is a functional piece of art displayed in Island Books. Inspired by a similar project undertaken by Yakima small press publisher Jim Bodeen, Island Books owner Roger Page wanted a place for the community to share poems and thoughts. Page shared this idea with local artist and teacher, Roz Ray, who led her alternative high school class in the production of the piece.

Event organizers invite Islanders to, "help (the Poetry Pole) flower by attaching pages of verse to its now-bare trunk." 

When: Contest opened April 1 and closes April 30.

How: Submit electronically to info@mercerislandbooks.com (subject line: POETRY CONTEST) or come in person to hang your submissions.

Who: Everyone. Poems will be judged in several categories:

• Grades K through 3 
• Grades 4 and 5 
• Middle and high school
• Adults

What: The theme is "What I Can Touch." Youth can submit entries in any form, while adults must restrict themselves to either the haiku or the limerick.

Why: Island Books gift certificates will be awarded in each of the youth categories as follows:

• First prize--$30
• Second prize--$20
• Third prize--$10

One adult winner will also receive a $30 gift certificate.

Winners will be announced at an in-store ceremony on Sunday, May 6 at 3:30pm. Contestants do not need to be present to win, but are encouraged to attend.