"Adding to 'The Keeping Quilt' " – Describe an event in which "The Keeping Quilt" ( either the book or the quilt itself) is incorporated, either by continuing the story in first person narrative (as if you are Patricia Polacco) or by writing a story of your own.

Winner will receive an illustration by Patricia Polacco of his/her story.

"Welcome Comfort" – Continue the story. What happens when Welcome overhears the children picking on another boy? What is the little boy’s name? Will he and Welcome become friends, and/or will Welcome someday pass on the responsibility of Santa Claus? Continue or complete the story as though you are Patricia Polacco in third person narrative, or from Welcome’s perspective (first person).

Winner will receive a special present from Welcome Comfort and Patricia Polacco this holiday season, 2001!

Tell us a story. You may write about anything you wish (in consideration of contest rules). Be as creative and imaginative as possible!

Winner will receive an illustration by Patricia Polacco based on his/her story.

"Thank You, Mr. Falker" – Tell us about your favorite teacher. How he or she has taught or inspired you, and helped you in some particular way. Be sure to include details, such as the instructor’s name, what grade he/she is (was) teaching, school name, location, etc. Write your response in essay form. One essay will be chosen each month to be posted on the web. Please include a photograph of the instructor if possible.

If your essay is chosen for the web, your name will go into a drawing. From that, we will chose three entries, each author of which will receive a signed copy of Thank You, Mr. Falker. The instructor you’ve chosen to write about will also receive a "thank you" gift from Patricia Polacco. Because the results will be posted on the web, each entry must include a written letter of permission signed by the participant and the instructor.

1. All entries must be submitted by August 1, 2001
2. Only one entry per person. But, if you enter "The Keeping Quilt," "Welcome Comfort," or "Tell us a Story" contests, you may also enter the "Thank You Mr. Falker" contest.
3. All entries must not be more than 750 words.
4. Profanity and inappropriate language are grounds for immediate disqualification.
5. Each entry must include: full name (John Doe), mailing address, what grade you are entering into next fall, and school name and location. Be sure to include the name of the contest you are entering!!!

• The winner of each category will be determined by December 1, 2001.
• The winning submission in each category will appear on the web, and the winner will be notified by mail.
• The prize will be included with the notification.
• Entries by three finalists in each category will also appear!

*Beginning May 1, 2001, each week, one submission from each contest will be selected to appear on the web. Chosen submissions are not necessarily contestant finalists, however they will be considered with all other entries. If you DO NOT want your submission to appear, be sure to tell us with entry! Be sure to check back each week to see if your entry has been chosen to appear on the web!