While there’s no specific theme you need to follow, please ensure your stories fit into one of the seven genres:

(1) Aliens & Angels
Stories involving extraterrestrial beings (aliens) or celestial beings (angels). These narratives often explore themes of otherworldly experiences, encounters with the unknown, and the interaction between human and non-human characters.

(2) Animal Tales 
Stories where animals are the main characters, often behave in human-like manner (speech, emotions), to explore themes like friendship, adventure, and moral lessons. These tales can be set in natural or fantastical environments.
 
(3) Asian Tales
Stories rooted in Asian cultures, traditions, and folklore. These narratives often include historical settings, cultural values, and mythical creatures, providing a rich tapestry of the diverse cultures within Asia.
 
(4) Ghosts & Ghouls
Stories involving supernatural elements like ghosts, spirits, and other eerie entities. These tales often explore themes of the afterlife, hauntings, and the interaction between the living and the dead, typically with a focus on creating a spooky or suspenseful atmosphere.

(5) Heart Warmers
Stories designed to evoke warmth and emotional satisfaction, often focusing on themes of love, kindness, and human connection. These narratives typically aim to leave readers with a sense of hope and happiness.
 
(6) Magic & Fantasy
Stories set in magical or fantastical worlds where elements of magic, mythical creatures, and extraordinary adventures are central to the plot. These tales often involve quests, battles between good and evil, and the exploration of fantastical realms.
 
(7) Mystery & Adventure
Stories that combine elements of mystery and adventure, often involving a protagonist who embarks on a thrilling journey to solve a puzzle or uncover secrets. These narratives are typically fast-paced and filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and exciting escapades.
 

Candidates should adhere to the following word count based on their category. The organizer reserves the right to disqualify any stories that do not adhere to the word count limit.

Junior Category
• For 8 to 12 years old
• 800-word (minimum) to 1,100-word (maximum)

Intermediate Category
• For 13 to 15 years old 
• 1,000-word (minimum) to 1,300-word (maximum)

Senior Category
• For 16 to 18 years old
• 1,200-word (minimum) to 1,500-word (maximum)

• File Type: Microsoft Word document
• File Name: Story Title_Competition Category (Example: The Babysitter_Junior)
• Title Font: Time New Roman (Bold)
• Title Font Size: 24
• Main Text Font: Times New Roman (Regular)
• Main Text Font Size: 12
• Spacing: 1.15
• Language: English 

All stories will remain anonymous to the judges. Do not include the author's name or any identifying information in the Word document.

All stories must be submitted by 11:59 PM, 25 August 2024. Any stories submitted after the deadline will not be accepted or considered. 

Upload your story here before the submission deadline! 

The judges will be looking for the following elements in your story:

• Creativity and imagination
• Ability to draw readers' attention
• Originality
• Maintenance of interest
• Continuity and climax