09/01/2026
Letters About Literature in Illinois is a statewide reading and writing promotion that dovetails with state and national learning standards. Students in grades 4 – 12 are invited to read a book of their choice, reflect on it, and write a personal letter to its author explaining the impact their work had on them.
Students can enter individually, through their school, the local public library, or youth organizations. There are three writing levels based on the student’s grade in school:
Level I - Grades 4 - 6
Level II - Grade 7 & 8
Level III - Grades 9 - 12
One winning letter is selected per level. Winners receive a cash prize and a plaque from the Illinois Secretary of State at an awards ceremony. Teachers of the winners receive a certificate and a cash prize for the school to purchase books for the school library.
Winners will be formally announced in May. Runners Up from each Level receive certificates mailed in time for end of school year awards ceremonies.
Enter by December 15, 2026
Written submissions will be accepted for all ages until the annual entry deadline of December 15. A completed entry form must be attached to each entry. Entries can be submitted via US Mail or Email.
Mail submissions to:
Letters About Literature
Competition Level (Indicate Level 1, 2 or 3 on the envelope)
Illinois Center for the Book
Illinois State Library
300 South Second Street
Springfield, Illinois 62701-1796
Email submissions to: [email protected] - in the Subject Line, include: LAL, Competition Level (1, 2 or 3), School Name and City
Additional Resources
Other information about the program and available at the Letters About Literature webpage includes:
1. Entry Form and Guidelines
2. Frequently Asked Questions
3. Letters About Literature Supports Common Core State Standards and National Language Art and Reading Standards
4. Teaching Guide
QUESTIONS
Contact: Bonnie Matheis, Coordinator, Illinois Center for the Book at 217-524-8836 or [email protected]
