The **Letters About Literature** competition, run by the **Library of Congress**, invites students to write a personal letter to an author (living or dead) whose book, story, poem, or speech has had a meaningful impact on their lives. Rather than summarizing the book, participants explain how the text changed their thinking, shaped their values, or helped them understand themselves or the world in a new way. The competition emphasizes reflection, clear written expression, and the ability to connect literature to real-life experiences. This program is especially well-suited for students who enjoy reading, writing, and thoughtful analysis, including those interested in **English, humanities, or the arts**. National recognition as a Letters About Literature winner can strengthen a **college application** by demonstrating strong writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and the capacity for critical self-reflection. Even for students who do not receive national honors, participating can: - Provide a polished writing sample for future applications - Deepen engagement with literature beyond classroom assignments - Build confidence in analytical and narrative writing Students can find guidelines, eligibility details, and submission information on the program’s website: **https://www.read.gov/letters/**.