Are you between ages 10 and 14 years old? Do you love to write?

MacKids Publishing is holding a nation-wide writing contest based on Gary Paulsen’s final novel, Northwind. (The author sadly passed away in 2021.) The author’s son will be judging the contest and there are prizes for 1st through 6th place- including admission to a writing workshop.

All essays should meet the following prompt: “At the end of Northwind, Leif turns away from signs of civilization to head back off on his own in a canoe at sea with limited supplies. In 1,000–3,000 words, continue Leif’s story or write a story about your own character embarking on a journey alone at sea.”

The last day to submit your entry is March 31st, so get creative and delve into Leif’s world in order to answer the question: What could have happened after “the end” of the book? The possibilities are as vast as the sea. Good luck!