Many HOH scholars enthusiastically joined our Library Poetry Club and had been anticipating a chance (like those last school year), to enter the International Book Creator Poetry Contest. However, when Book Creator decided not to host the contest this school year, HOH Poetry enthusiasts (listed below) did not give up. Instead, they proposed that we create our own contest! They even helped develop rules and many of the categories (Special Mention, Poetry Star, Poetry Superstar and Poet Laureate) for the Inaugural HOH Poetry Contest. 

These scholars visited the library regularly and sometimes had to be encouraged to take recess. They worked diligently, striving to enhance their poetry-writing skills especially the use of literary devices, and grew to understand the importance of collaboration, constructive critique, peer review and editing. Some scholars received recognition for their poetry submitted in NYS Senator Rolison's Earth Day Contest, April 2024!

Inspired by these scholars, by the end of the school year, other scholars from grade 1 - 5 had submitted 208 eBooks with multiple, original poems in different genres. Thirty-five (35) scholars who met the contest qualifications were judged “Top of the Crop”. Access the Inaugural HOH Poetry Contest Library and enjoy mellifluous, engaging poems! 

Thanks to all our scholars who made the effort to create original poetry.  Many of you came close to qualifying and we are sure you will get there with continued effort.  Also, thanks to Ms. Carraro & Ms. Bravo for your help with editing.

Click here to access the top 10 Poetry eBooks from around the world in all age categories. Then, scroll down to find HOH’s Fantastic, Fun, Funny, For-You Poetry!  

As many as 51 HOH scholars contributed to this labor of love. Along with a tribute to Newburgh are several poems of appreciation to our US Military, the latter inspired by a year-long library project with Staff Sgt. Chrissy Rivers of West Point.  

The collection placed 7th to be exact. It was the first submission into the Book Creator International competition that, according to judges, “...had over 100 entrants from around the world, showcasing amazing poetry and book design skills”. Judge Matthew Friday (International Teacher, Literacy Consultant, and Professional Storyteller) gave HOH special mention, stating, “This collection of poetry was immediately engaging with the first poem, The Auspicious Alsdorfs. That serious poem hooked me and I was enthralled, delighted, surprised and entertained throughout''.  Additionally, the HOH collection is included as one of Book Creator’s exemplars under their Poetry category.  

Photos and story information provided by Mrs. Michell Wright Jumpp, School Library Media Specialist. Mrs. Wright Jumpp's write-up can be found by clicking the following title link: Horizons-on-the-Hudson Poets are World Class!