Apply by December 31
Use the short online application to introduce yourself and your work.
Applications open October 15–December 31, 2026
The Judie Wolken Writing Scholarship
For middle school writers ready to take an original story or poem from its first spark to its strongest form.
How it works
A promising voice deserves time, attention, and encouragement.
Judie helps choose the winners
Judie will bring her eye for creativity, craft, originality, and heart to selecting two writers, announced in January.
Develop your voice
Selected writers receive ten private sessions with Royd Hatta or Shu-Hsien Ho from February through June, with publication in July.
Meet the mentors
Two mentors. Thoughtful, one-on-one attention.
Each recipient will work with a generous, experienced coach to develop craft, confidence, and a finished piece they are proud to share.
Royd Hatta
A writer, educator, and longtime champion of young people’s creative voices, Royd brings patient attention and practical encouragement to every stage of the writing process.
Shu-Hsien Ho
An experienced writer and educator, Shu-Hsien helps young writers discover what is distinctive in their work and gives them the tools to revise with clarity and confidence.
Meet our book godmother
For Judie, the right story is always worth sharing.
Judie Wolken is, quite simply, Linden Tree’s beloved book godmother—a longtime art teacher, a wonderful storyteller, and the possessor of a remarkably sharp sense of humor and an unerring instinct for the next book everyone should read. For years, she shared books, conversation, and friendship with Norma Melchor through their book club, later helping carry that spirit forward through El Camino Health Foundation’s Norma’s Literary Luncheon.
At Linden Tree, the usual bookseller-customer roles are often reversed: countless times, our booksellers have taken their next great recommendation from Judie—and she is never wrong. Her eye extends far beyond books; every outfit, handwritten note, and gift is immaculately considered, with the artistry and warmth of someone who has spent a lifetime noticing what makes things—and people—special. The sustainably designed Wolken Education Center at Hidden Villa also bears her family’s name.
We are honored that Judie will help select the scholarship winners, bringing the same intelligence, wit, discernment, and generous spirit that have made her so deeply loved.
Ready to begin?