If you have a talent for creating illustrated short stories, you are invited to enter San José Public Library’s Graphic Novel Contest for all ages as part of our Summer Reading Celebration, 2011. This contest is sponsored by San José Public Library and TRY Japan Culture Group.

Here’s how to enter …

• Create your own graphic novel with a maximum length of 8 pages of text and black-and-white drawings using letter-size paper, including the cover page.
• Each submission must be the creative and original work of a single individual—the author/illustrator.
• Be sure to include your NAME, AGE and CONTACT INFORMATION on the back of your entry.
• Submit a photocopy that is an accurate reflection of the original (please do not submit original work as submissions are non-returnable).
• Entries can be submitted to any San José Public Library location no later than 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 30, 2011. There is a limit of one entry per contestant.

Entries will be judged on content and illustrations by a panel of library staff and comic industry professionals. All winners will get a gift card.

• Children (up to age 12):  first prize $50; second prize $25; third prize $20
• Teens (ages 12-18):  first prize $100; second prize $75; third prize $50
• Adults (age 18 and above):  first prize $100; second prize $75; third prize $50

Winners will be announced and prizes awarded at a reception to be held at the Berryessa Branch Library on August 27th at 3:00p.m.in the Community Room. Check out the winners here.

San José Public Library staff members are ineligible to participate.

San José Public Library reserves the right to refuse submissions that are not appropriate for a general audience.