Individual or team of 2–6 · Physical storybook and portfolio

Children's Stories

You will write, illustrate, and build a book that children can explore by touch.

You create the book.You test it with children.You document what you learn.

What you make or do

Create and bind an original illustrated storybook about the weather with at least five tactile elements and seven original illustrations.
Prepare a printed portfolio documenting your writing, illustration, book construction, research, work log, and at least two readings with children in your intended age group.

This year’s challenge

For 2027, tell a story about the weather and include at least five tactile elements that readers can touch.

How the competition works

Before the event

Write and construct the book, photograph your construction process, and conduct at least two field tests with children. Record the findings and obtain the advisor signoffs required for those tests.

First round

Bring the physical book and portfolio together. Judges assess the book first, then the portfolios of the highest-ranking entries.

If you advance

Up to two representatives answer questions about the project in a five-minute interview.

Know before you choose: Your team must create the narrative, illustrations, construction, and binding. The story should stay within 1,500 words; professional binding is not allowed.

How your work is scored

Judges assess the story, illustrations, construction, impact, theme connection, and portfolio, followed by project knowledge in the semifinal interview.

Download the official rubric or score sheet (PDF)

Open the scoring pages within the full event guide

Read the full 2027 theme or preparation information

Theme: Create a book that tells a story about the weather. You must include at least five tactile elements.

Official files to keep

Read the guide, current challenge, and updates together. This overview helps you choose; the official documents give the full requirements.

Guide evidence: 85–93. Annual sources checked September 10, 2026. These are national competition rules; your teacher will confirm any regional or state changes.

Interested in this event?

Use the notes sheet to check what this choice would involve.

Start my competition notes