Student wins writing competition with captivating story in Hämeenlinna

In a recent writing competition aimed at elementary school students, a captivating story titled “Shiterat,” authored by 10-year-old Saara Lainesalo from Hämeenlinna, has emerged as the winner. The narrative depicts a dark and immersive world where the protagonist, after wandering through a gloomy forest, finally discovers the “Shiterat,” individuals like herself who dwell in the shadows. The story culminates in a powerful sacrifice for others, leading to a descent into darkness.

The writing contest, organized by the Päätalo Institute, received an impressive total of 2,576 submissions. Lainesalo’s achievement in this competition not only highlights her talent but also reflects the significant role that reading and writing play in her life. Surrounded by her three cats, Lainesalo’s affection for them is evident in her artwork and daily conversations. She describes herself as an avid reader, having “easily” gone through over 500 books, with Agatha Christie being her favorite author. Among her beloved series is “Warrior Cats,” and she hopes to connect with friends who share her interests: “Then we could even exchange letters,” she envisions.

Despite her success, Lainesalo has faced challenges in recent years, including feelings of loneliness that have impacted her mood. Her mother, Enni Lainesalo, notes that the emotions reflected in Saara’s winning story resonate with her personal experiences. Furthermore, Saara has demonstrated remarkable abilities in learning, particularly in the Japanese language, acquiring skills through self-study and educational apps. After the autumn break, she will advance from the fifth grade to the sixth grade upon her teacher’s recommendation, as school has often felt too easy for her.