Estonian-speaking children living outside Estonia are invited to take part in an inspiring international creative contest “Minu raamatud” (“My Books”), where they can express their love for books by writing stories, drawing pictures and making videos.
For Estonian children living in Australia, this is a brilliant excuse to get creative in Estonian, impress the grandparents, and share how books have made them think, laugh, dream – or fall asleep after three pages.
Taking part can do wonders: it strengthens Estonian language skills, boosts confidence, encourages storytelling superpowers, and deepens kids’ connection to their roots – all while having fun. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want an excuse to draw a dragon, write about grandma’s favourite cookbook, or recommend that weirdly amazing book they read last summer (that put everyone else asleep after three pages)?
Let’s celebrate the joy of storytelling – it’s time for young Estonians in Australia to shine, smile, and maybe win a little something for their bookshelf too.
Tell us more!
The theme “Minu raamatud” can be tailored to suit every child’s personality – whether they’re a bookworm, a budding poet, or someone who just likes the smell of new books. Some ideas:
- “Our Family’s Favourite Books”
- “My Favourite Book”
- “My Teddy Bear’s Favourite Book”
- “A Book I Recommend to Everyone”
- “This Book Taught Me Something New”
What can you create? Absolutely anything (within reason) that ties into books and reading:
- Typed stories, fairy tales, poems, interviews or essays in Estonian
- Handwritten pieces (snap a photo!) or illustrations (extra points for doodles!…Well, probably not, but we’ll love them!)
- Digital posters or imaginative book covers
- Short videos or animations for future TikTok directors
How to submit?
🕐 Deadline: 15 June 2025
📧 Email: info@yleilmakool.ee (Subject: LOOVTÖÖ)
Just make sure to include:
- Full name, age and country of residence
- Optional: school and class, contact email (parent or child), and teacher’s name
- Parent’s permission to share the work on Üleilmakool’s website or elsewhere – yes, we need the grown-ups’ blessing!
Can I win a prize?
Of course! The best works will be showcased at the Üleilmakooli Family Day on 2 August 2025 at the AHHAA Science Centre in Tartu, Estonia. Can’t make it to Estonia? No worries – prizes will be sent by post (and no, it won’t be a book about stamp collecting – unless you ask nicely).
Who’s responsible?
This contest has been organised by Üleilmakool. Since 2013, Üleilmakool has been teaching Estonian children living around the world – over 300 students in 37 countries so far! Even if you’re living in the Aussie outback or the middle of Melbourne, you can still learn Estonian language, literature, history and more through online lessons and courses.
Read more
🖱️ More info about the contest in Estonian here.
📩 Questions? Contact Helja Kirber at info[at]yleilmakool.ee
P.S. While the little ones are busy being bookish geniuses, sneak off to the Southern Hemisphere Estonian Book Club – it’s your turn to talk about your favourite reads without anyone interrupting for snacks.
