Students invited to participate in art contest

The Tuscarawas County Literacy Coalition has selected "My Side of the River," written by Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez, as its One Book, One Community project for fall 2025.

The autobiography describes the challenges faced by Gutierrez, who was born in Arizona to immigrant parents from Mexico. When she was 15, her parents returned to Mexico, but she stayed in the United States to continue her studies. Despite many difficulties, she graduated from high school and college. She shares her story to encourage students in similar situations not to lose hope or determination.

The Coalition provides books for students and teachers, presentations, activities and programs in schools and libraries. Students are also invited to participate in an art contest based on the book’s themes.

The culminating event will be held Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, when Gutierrez will speak at 7 p.m. in Founder’s Hall at Kent State University Tuscarawas in New Philadelphia. Winners of the art contest will be announced that evening.

The art contest theme is "Living in Two Worlds." Students may choose their medium and should base their work on the book. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three winners. Copies of the book are available at local libraries.

Students should include their name, grade, email, cell phone number, school and district, and art teacher’s name on the back of their submission. Artwork may be dropped off at the Tuscarawas County Center for the Arts between noon and 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, or delivered to any public library in Tuscarawas County.

For more information, contact Sherrel Rieger at srieger@doverlibrary.org or Jim Gill at director@doverlibrary.org. Details about the 2025 One Book, One Community project are available at www.tuscliteracy.org.