Essay Contest - 2025

Read the book, Cactus Queen : Minerva Hoyt Establishes Joshua Tree National Park  by Lori Alexander & Jenn Ely, available at your school library, public library, or bookstore.

 

Compose an essay of no more than 300 words using three separate paragraphs explaining:

 

1. Your reactions to the book as a whole.

2. Your thoughts about a character or scene that stuck with you.

3. What it would mean for you to meet the author.

 

• Type the essay using a 12 point font.

• No title is required.

• Check spelling, punctuation, and grammar carefully. Mistakes will disqualify the entry.

• Be sure the essay is no longer than 300 words. ​

 

Individual students may each submit their own entry. Only one entry per student allowed.

Online entries ONLY!

 

All entries must be submitted by October 25th, 2025. Complete the contest entry form below. Submit your essay by copy/pasting or typing it into the space on the form labeled Paste or Type your essay here. When you're sure it looks perfect, hit the SUBMIT button!

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