Enter the Contest!

July 25, 2023

Baltimore County Public Library and the Foundation challenge you to write your own original horror story. The seventh annual Tales of the Dead Short Horror Story Contest runs August 1 through September 22. Winners will be announced on October 2. The theme this year is “Petrifying Poe.” Each story should contain an element, appearance or mention of Edgar Allan Poe. Be creative!

There are two categories: Over 21, which includes ages 21 and up, and Under 21. First, second and third place winners in each category will be selected by a panel of judges including librarians, published authors and community leaders. Criteria for judging includes originality, fear factor and quality of writing.

Full contest rules