Winning Writers announces the winners of its 21st annual Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest, judged by Michal ‘MJ’ Jones, with assistance from Briana Grogan and Dare Williams. Kizziah Burton from Houston, Texas, claims the Tom Howard Prize of $3,000 for her poem “Cist,” while Mikaela Hagen of Madison, Wisconsin, secures the Margaret Reid Prize of $3,000 for her piece “Sestina for My Daughter.” Both awardees also receive two-year gift certificates from the contest co-sponsor, Duotrope. A total of 2,509 poets participated from across the globe.
Photos – courtesy of Winning Writers ©
“Cist” looks into the realms of grief and disbelief, exploring the loss of a child in a poignant and unforgettable manner. Judge MJ Jones praises its profound impact and impeccable craftsmanship, describing it as a brave and haunting offering. Meanwhile, “Sestina for My Daughter” captures the tension and vulnerability of pregnancy, weaving a narrative that resonates with human emotion and experience.
In addition to the top prizes, ten Honorable Mentions of $300 each were awarded to F.J. Bergmann, Ja’net Danielo, Lee Desrosiers, Maia Elsner, Mary Chi-Whi Kim, Shereen Leanne, Clif Mason, Maya Salameh, Spencer Chang, and Darius Simpson. All winning entries are available for reading online at Winning Writers.
Looking ahead, the 2024 contest is now open until October 1, 2024, with increased top prizes of $3,500 each. Michal ‘MJ’ Jones will return as the final judge, joined by Briana Grogan and Dare Williams. Writers interested in submitting their work can find contest guidelines and submit their entries.
Kizziah Burton of Houston, TX and Mikaela Hagen of Madison, WI won the 21st annual Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest.
Established in 2001, Winning Writers has earned recognition as one of the “101 Best Websites for Writers” (Writer’s Digest, 2023). Alongside the Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest, Winning Writers also sponsors the Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest, the North Street Book Prize, and the Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest (no fee), all of which come highly recommended by Reedsy.
