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Camp Internet Mark Twain Story Contest

First, ask each student to select a nom-de-plume using a reference from their own life and experience. Explain to them that Samuel Clemens, who worked on river boats in his early years as a young man, selected the nom-de-plume Mark Twain because he heard it hollered often on the river as the boatmen measured the depth of the river. Mark twain meant 'mark two' in riverboat slang.

Next, ask them to give some serious thought to telling a tall tale. Have them find a story they have heard somewhere, or an event they observed, and then ask them to take that little idea and expand it into a lively story full of unpredictable and unexpected events.

It is important they let the reader understand the inner motivations of any character they develop, and that their activities revolve around getting into and out of some difficult situation, often with humor, and always with a surprise solution.

The three top stories of the year will win a copy of a Mark Twain children's book, or novel. Awards will go in each category 3-6th grade, 7-9th grade, 10-12th grade. Best stories from each classroom will also be posted online with merit award insignias.

Please submit the stories with their title, pen-name, and the actual student name, grade, school and teacher. Send to camp@rain.org, or mail to Camp Internet PO Box 325 Buellton CA 93427.