Every young person has a story worth telling

Words That Count transforms young readers into published authors. Through creative workshops and expert mentorship, we guide young people aged 10-18 in discovering their literary voice.

A gateway to the transformative power of creative writing

Words That Count was born from a simple conviction: literacy isn’t built through reading alone — it’s also built through writing, imagining, and shaping the world through words. Since its launch, this AKF Portugal initiative has guided young people from across the country on an extraordinary journey: from curious readers to published authors. We partner with schools, educators, and local communities to create spaces where creative writing thrives. Our methodology, developed alongside education and children’s literature specialists, guides each young author from the first spark of inspiration to the publication of their work. The result? Stories that surprise, voices that inspire, and a growing community that believes in the power of words. Every published book is more than an individual achievement — it’s proof that when we give young people the right tools and confidence, their words truly count.

Joined by 25k+ writers & growing

Young Authors

Meet the voices reshaping Portuguese youth literature. Each author brings a unique perspective, a personal story, and a courage that inspires.

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Published Works

Discover our digital library of youth-authored works. Short stories, poetry, novellas, and more — available for free reading and download.

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Literary Festival 2026

The flagship gathering of the PQC community. Author readings, creative workshops, educator sessions, and family-friendly activities. May 2026.

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Educator Resources

Lesson plans, workshop guides, and a Moodle platform with ready-to-use materials. Everything designed to bring creative writing into your classroom.

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Palavras que Contam

Words That
Count

Sofia Martins, 15 years

Work: The Garden of Whispers

“Writing taught me that my ideas have value.”

Miguel Santos, 14 years

Work: Echoes of Tomorrow

“Writing taught me that my ideas have value.”

Ana Rodrigues, 16 years

Work: The Last Summer

“Writing taught me that my ideas have value.”

Literary Festival & Events

Join us for moments of celebration, learning, and sharing. From creative writing workshops to the grand Literary Festival in May 2026, there’s always an opportunity to engage with the Words That Count community.

  • The "Palavras que Contam" (Words That Count) Literary Festival 2026 marks the crowning moment of an extraordinary journey: young Portuguese authors, aged 10 to 18, take the stage to present the works they wrote, created, and published through months of creative workshops and dedicated mentorship. More than an event, it is a celebration of the transformative power of writing — where families, educators, partners, and the wider community come together to applaud the creative courage of a new generation of literary voices. Author readings, book signings, interactive workshops, and educator networking make this festival a unique experience for everyone who believes words can change the world.

    • May 5
    • Centro Ismaili de Lisboa

From inspiration to publication.

A creative methodology designed for young authors

Words That Count was born from a simple conviction: literacy isn’t built through reading alone — it’s also built through writing, imagining, and shaping the world through words. We partner with schools, educators, and local communities to create spaces where creative writing thrives.

Phase 1 – Discovery

Creative exploration workshops where young people find their voice and the literary genres that excite them most.

Phase 2 – Creation

Individualized support in developing their work, with continuous feedback from mentors and peers.

Phase 3 – Publication

Editorial review, cover design, and publication — because every story deserves to be read.

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Young Authors
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Published Works
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Partner Schools

Digital Library

Short stories, poetry, novellas, and more. All works published through the Words That Count project are available for free reading. Explore and be surprised by the creativity of Portuguese youth.

Digital Library

Discover the works of our young authors.

Short stories, poetry, novellas, and more. All works published through the Words That Count project are available for free reading. Explore, share, and let yourself be surprised by the creativity of Portuguese youth.

Latest News & Stories

Every published book is more than an individual achievement — it’s proof that when we give young people the right tools and confidence, their words truly count.