Library Celebrates Spooky Story Contest Winners with Staff Readings
Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library is setting the scene the day before Halloween, bringing the stories of young writers to life.
Staff announced the winners of the Spooky Story Contest where students in grades three through eight explored the theme “The Library after Dark” and created imaginative tales. Those who captured the title this year are:
- Ella C., Grade 3
- Madeline S., Grade 3
- Evelyn G., Grade 4
- Lola M., Grade 4
- Emily N., Grade 4
- Lilly P., Grade 5
- Seth S., Grade 5
- Wren V., Grade 5
- Haven W., Grade 5
- Asher B., Grade 6
The winners had their stories read aloud during the library’s festive All Hallows Read program, which took place Thursday evening at the library’s temporary location (446 East Second Street). Following the event, all entries will be published in a book that becomes part of the library’s collection, giving visitors the chance to enjoy these imaginative and spooky tales for years to come.
One standout is Daisy P., a third grader, who told a story about a dragon hunting for a ghost with the help of a friendly unicorn. She shared her enjoyment of fantasy and magical stories, which is why she chose dragons and unicorns for her spooky tale. Daisy has never typed a story before, and her ideas come from her imagination rather than from books. “I really like coming up with ideas,” said Daisy.
Reflecting on having her story published in the library, she added, “It feels really cool knowing people will be able to read my story here at the library.” She is also excited to share the experience with her family, especially since her sister will have a story in the same book.
Her sister, Lilly P., a fifth grader, created The Ghost in the Midnight Library, featuring a giant ghost named Glitch who learns to care for others. “My favorite part is introducing all the characters,” explained Lilly. “I want people to think about the funny parts in my story.”
She detailed her love for writing stories and wants to become an author when she grows up. Lilly drew inspiration from movies with strong characters, including the whimsical style of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. She dedicated her story to her parents, who helped proofread her work, and said it is meant to encourage readers to enjoy a little humor in their spooky adventures.
From ghosts to goblins, young imaginations keep the library’s spooky tales alive. Lola M., a fourth grader, wrote about a young boy named Alex who encounters mischievous library goblins after hours. “I love the kissing part. That was the funny part,” said Lola about her story, laughing.
She gave each goblin a name starting with the letter “G,” a clever nod to “goblins,” and took inspiration for her towering 7.5-foot character, M’lady from a Teen Titans episode. A fan of spooky stories (as long as they don’t give her nightmares), Lola said she thought the contest was “a good opportunity,” adding, “I’ve always dreamed of being famous.”
Fifth grader Seth S. took readers deep into the unknown with his story RATS in the Haunted Library where a group of friends uncovers a hidden door, a secret laboratory, and a chilling figure known as Dr. Arthur. Packed with mystery, suspense, and a few well-timed scares, Seth’s story leaves readers wondering what might happen next. “I really like thrillers and cliff-hangers,” he said. “I wanted to keep people guessing at the end.”
Seth revealed he already has ideas for where the story goes next and is excited to see the original published as part of the library’s collection for others to discover in the years to come.
Rounding out the contest with more library adventures, Daphne C., an eighth grader, shared a tale of a young girl named Lily who stays up late reading and discovers the mysteries of her library after hours. Daphne said she enjoys writing because it allows her to create her own characters and imagine magical worlds. Lily, her brave and clever main character, faces a ghost who chases her through the library, providing both suspense and excitement. “I would like people to know my story and enjoy it,” said Daphne. “It is exciting to think my story will be in the library for everyone to read.”
The Spooky Story Contest entries will be available for readers soon at the library… well worth the wait for anyone brave enough to wander through these imaginative, after-hours tales.
