We’re pleased to announce the winners of the “Hidden History” Writing and Art Contests.

This year, youth ages 8-14 who live or attend school in Pasadena were challenged to put their own spin on a piece of history. All artwork and stories were inspired by characters or moments from past events–whether that’s their own history or a historical moment. This contest was sponsored by the Friends of the Pasadena Public Library.

Special thanks to our judges:  Tiffany Duenas, Natassia Mendez, Roy Park, Leela Perea, and Jesse Roth

Here are the winners and honorable mentions.

Art Contest

 

Writing Contest

1st place (Category 1: ages 8-11): “Jesse Owens Dreams” by Canaan Pettit, Grade 5.

Summary:  A runner is inspired by Jesse Owens’ words, “The best part about running is feeling free.” CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

2nd place (Category 1: ages 8-11): “One Step Ahead” by Carolyn Wang, Age 11

Summary:  Cameron found a note with a mystery waiting to be solved: “Seek the Heart, Solve the clues, Find the fortune” CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

3rd place (Category 1: ages 8-11): “The English Men” by Ishbel Tyler, Grade 5

Summary:  A grandmother recalls a night when she overhears unwanted visitors at their village. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

Honorable Mentions (Category 1: ages 8-11): 

  • “The Time Tempest” by Ellis Gruesbeck, Age 11
    Summary:  Ritchie finds a mysterious box which grants him an adventure of a lifetime. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY
  • “Mystery Package” by Emelia Lagousis, Grade 6
    Summary:  The narrator finds a mysterious letter with a mission. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY
  • “The Secret” by Aaron Young, Grade 3
    Summary:  Zach finds out something interesting about his father. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

1st place (Category 2: ages 12-14): “A Surprising School Trip” by Leah Bacigalupi, Age 12

Summary:  Harper discovers a startling detail about her family. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

2nd place (Category 2: ages 12-14): “to be free” by Chloe Daily, Age 12

Summary:  A slave wishes to be free. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

3rd place (Category 2: ages 12-14): “Ang pamilya ay lahat (Family is Everything)” by Jordan Fleischman, Age 12

Summary:  The narrator explains her own hidden history. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY

 

Honorable Mentions (Category 2: ages 12-14): 

  • “Revolutionary Love” by Emma Rispin, Age 12
    Summary:  Amidst a war, a frightful night, and an unknowable future. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY
  • “The Soldier” by Samuel Smookler, Age 12
    Summary:  The narrator discover some important history about his grandfather. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY
  • “A House Full of History” by Raahi Pearce, Age 12
    Summary:  Geoffrey uncovers some of his house’s stories. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY
  • “The Great Molasses Flood” by Sierra Ng, Age 12
    Summary:  Josie learns about the Great Molasses Flood. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL STORY