The Search for Younger Fen

by Judith Kindell

Remember the joy of reading science fiction and fantasy when you were younger? Whether it was exploring the far reaches of space or discovering a world of magic, the books we read then helped to expand our imagination and learn more about the world around us. For many of us, this was our introduction to the genre that we continue to enjoy today as we share this interest with fellow fans at conventions. It helped make us devout life long readers, and, for some, it inspired career choices.

To encourage young people to discover these joys, Bucconeer is sponsoring a Student Science Fiction Contest. Elementary, middle, and high school students may write science fiction or fantasy stories, create science fiction or fantasy art, or write essays on science topics. While we will direct our activities primarily to students in the Baltimore-Washington area, the contest is open to all students. We hope that this contest will be a prototype for an annual contest.

Friday at Bucconeer will be devoted to developing younger science fiction fen. A ceremony will be held Friday afternoon to announce the Golden Duck Awards for Excellence in Children's Science Fiction [There was an article on the Golden Duck Awards in Broadside Two. - Ed.] and the winners of our contest. There will also be programming intended primarily for teachers and librarians who are interested in science fiction as a teaching tool.

We are asking schools and libraries in the Baltimore-Washington area to participate in the contest, either by letting students know about the contest or by using the contest as a class project. If schools and libraries are interested, we would like to coordinate with local professionals who could give talks or presentations to the students.

Up to 100 semi-finalists will receive a one-day Bucconeer membership for Friday, August 7, 1998. All finalists will receive a commemorative t-shirt as well. The winners will receive full attending Bucconeer memberships and additional prizes.

We are currently seeking sponsors to provide other prizes. Art contest winners and possibly some of the finalist entries will be displayed in the Art Show. We hope to publish the winning stories and essays as well as some of the finalist entries.

All contest entries must be postmarked by March 13, 1998. Anyone interested in participating in this project, particularly those in the Baltimore-Washington area, should see the flyer and entry form included with this Broadside for more information or contact Mary Bentley care of the Bucconeer postal address or contest@bucconeer.worldcon.org.