Five Things Friday: issue 32
Submission opportunities, a stay in a library, and money for work in progress
Isn’t this penguin the cutest?? He was a gift from the lovely Untrodden Ways: the group of young writers I work with at Dowdales School in Dalton. I’ve named him Kitten. (Since we already have Penguin the cat, it felt appropriate to also have Kitten the penguin chick.)
The reason they gave me a penguin (other than the fact that they’re just a supremely lovely group) is because it was our last session before the summer. For some of them, who’ll be in yr10 and working towards GCSEs next year, it’s their last session in the poetry group ever. It was emotional, to say the least, looking back at all the poems they’ve written during the year, and thinking about what a fab group they’ve been to work with.
And of course, it’s another sign of the school year coming to a close. Which of course, only means an even bigger list of things I need to get done before the summer holidays…
But first, writing opportunities!
Another cracking set of writing opportunities for the diary this week - and a particularly strong week for writers with a manuscript ready for submission.
Pens at the ready? Here goes:
1 - Fox and Star Books
Fox and Star Books is a new independent publishing house founded by poet Carrie Etter, and dedicated to ‘amplifying diverse voices in poetry and fiction’.
They’re currently looking for poetry chapbook submissions, from UK residents who haven’t previously publsihed a poetry pamphlet / chapbook / full-length collection.
They’re commited to publishing at least 50% of their titles by global majority or otherwise marginalised writers.
There’s a £10 entry fee, but also 20 free entries available to low-income authors.
Deadline: 15th July - check it out
2 - Penguin Michael Joseph Undiscovered Writers’ Prize
Looking for authors from underrepresented backgrounds, this year’s prize is looking for ‘something scary’! Horror novels with ‘a strong hook and even stronger atmosphere’.
The winner will receive a publishing contract with Penguin Michael Joseph, a £10,000 advance, and representation by Bell Lomax Moreton Agency.
Deadline: 25th July - check it out
3 - Literature Alliance Scotland
If you’re a Scotland-based writer, and have published at least one full-length work with a UK publisher, then your work-in-progress could earn you £3000!
There are 5 x £3000 bursaries available - and unusually, this opportunity is also open to writers whose book is already under contract.
Deadline: 25th July - check it out
4 - Gladstone’s Library
Many of you will already know that I love Gladstone’s Library. I spent a month there as Writer in Residence a few years ago, and went back more recently for an amazing week to work on Novel Number 3. So I love getting to share opportunities for other people to spend time there!
Currently, they’re open for applications of scholarships. Check the website to see the full range of scholarships they offer.
Deadline: 31st July - check it out
5 - Fly on the Wall
Another one I have a very personal love for and affinity with: Fly on the Wall are a fab indie publisher, punching above their weight with the awesome books they produce.
They’re currently open for submissions of novels and novellas.
Deadline: 31st July - check it out
And there you have it! Don’t forget to subscribe for five more writing opportunities next week.
And in the meantime, good luck, and happy writing! x