All Booked Up and Peak City Publishing, LLC sponsored a short story contest for young adults called “The First Line.” Participants, ages 12-20, submitted manuscripts between 2,500 and 5,000 words each. The manuscripts were judged on entertainment value: overall enjoyment, willingness to buy the story as a book, and willingness to recommend to a friend. Scores across six independent judges were collated to determine the winner, runner ups and honorable mentions.

The winning manuscript, written by Daniel Gallagher, is titled “At Least There’s That.” Danny is a senior at Middle Creek High School in Apex, North Carolina. He will receive the honor of having his name and title as the cover of the first in a series of short story collections published by Peak City Publishing, LLC.

The winner was announced on Friday, June 5 at All Booked Up in Apex. The bookstore is hosting a celebration party for all of the participants on Friday, June 11 at 7 p.m.. Runner ups and Honorable Mentions will also be awarded. The celebration is open to the public.