Madison, WI – Winners of the 32nd annual Wisconsin People & Ideas poetry contest, including first-place recipient juj e lepe, are set to present their award-winning works at the upcoming Wisconsin Book Festival. The presentation, hosted by the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters, will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 7 PM at the Madison Central Library.
The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters, a long-standing institution dedicated to fostering cultural and intellectual growth in the state, announced the victors of its annual contest in July 2026. This prestigious competition, which includes both poetry and fiction categories, highlights the rich literary talent originating from Wisconsin.
In the poetry category, juj e lepe of Madison secured first place for their piece titled 'Masculinity Study.' Following closely, Sam Niven of Milwaukee earned second place with 'Low Tide,' while Samantha Schoville of Madison received third place for 'Why We Prayed.' Carly Davis of Janesville was also recognized with an honorable mention for 'Reading Lorine Downriver.' The contest celebrates literary talent across the state, providing a platform for emerging and established voices.
The upcoming presentation at the Wisconsin Book Festival serves as a significant platform for these poets to share their creative endeavors directly with an engaged audience. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to experience the works that captivated the judges and earned top honors in this year's competition. The event is a testament to the thriving literary community supported by the Wisconsin Academy and the broader Wisconsin Book Festival, underscoring the Academy's commitment to fostering arts and letters within the community.
As the October date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an evening of compelling poetic expression, showcasing the vibrant literary scene cultivated by the Wisconsin Academy's long-running competition.