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Last Updated: 12 July 2008
If you would like to be informed whenever this section of the JBWB website is significantly updated, simply send an e-mail to jenny@jbwb.co.uk with 'UPDATE' as the subject.
See also:
Jacqui Bennett Writers Bureau
The Summer 2008 Competition winners will be announced at the end of July.
Click HERE for the latest short story winners and runners-up and HERE for poetry winners
New Autumn 2008 Short Story Competition
Poetry Competition - now with THREE big prizes
Entry fee payable by credit card or cheque
NEW
The Writers' and Artists Yearbook 2009
Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2009
Children's Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 2008
Kudos(formerly Competitions Bulletin/Writing Competitions Monthly)
The ONLY magazine of its type on the market today. Lists details of current UK and Overseas writing competitions - and there are more than you think! Up to £250,000 of prize money in each issue. POETRY - SHORT STORIES - ANTHOLOGIES - PLAYS - NOVELS - NON-FICTION. Compiled and edited by Carole Baldock. Subscribe to any number of issues @ £2.50 each UK postpaid. Write to Carole Baldock, 17 Greenhow Avenue, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 5EL, stating how many issues of Competitions Bulletin you'd like at £2.50 per issue. (Also, please state which month - Competitions Bulletin is published in: January, March, May, July, September, November.) Enclose Cheque/PO payable to Carole Baldock - and don't forget to include your name and address. Queries: carolebaldock@hotmail.com. Website: www.kudoswriting.wordpress.com
The Whittaker Prize
The first annual Whittaker Prize writing competition consists of nine rounds, each lasting two weeks. It opens on June 1, 2008 and submissions for the final round will be due on October 5, 2008. Full details: http://www.helenwhittaker.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=3723
Gold Dust magazine
Gold Dust magazine is 50 pages of quality writing, including short stories, poems, articles, interviews and reviews. Two issues a year. Gold Dust is run as an on-going competition, with a small entry fee for submitting work and cash prizes for all published poetry and prose. Every issue, the best poem and the best short story each win £20 first prize. All other published stories and poems are awarded a £6 runner-up prize. Website: http://www.golddustmagazine.co.uk
Pop Cult, Essential Reading Material for the Bathroom
A funny, literary magazine, which is certainly irreverent and a bit strange, but in a good way. Website: http://www.myspace.com/popcultmag
Write in France
Learn to Write in France. Writing competition - €100 First Prize PLUS a free place on a weekend writing course. To celebrate the launch of writeinfrance here is a fabulous writing competition that anyone can enter - click HERE for more details.
A Book About Fiction Writing Exercises
If you want to maximise your ideas output as a writer then Elaine Saunders' A Book About Fiction Writing Exercises is for you. With 120 exercises on 30 themes, this invaluable book will get you Literary Fit and in training for your novel. Whether you're an aspiring author short on ideas, or a long-term writer who's literally lost the plot, these exercises will get you focused, creating and writing regularly. An essential workbook for anyone serious about finally getting down to writing that novel. FREE email feedback and advice on the scenes you write with these exercises. Win a free download of A Book About Fiction Writing Exercises - read the preview for full details. More details at http://www.lulu.com/content/2104636
The Romance of Trees
The Romance of Trees is a new website all about re-telling the fairytale. The site offers a collection of short stories and amusing articles, which mixes up the world of the traditional fairytale with a modern twist. The rich scope of the fairytale world means that there is an almost exhaustive supply of new stories that can be created by taking old themes or characters and using them in new ways to look at ourselves in the modern world. The site hopes to develop in the future with submissions from other writers, including a forthcoming challenge to write flash fiction fairytales. Visit www.romanceoftrees.co.uk to find out more.
The Yellow Room
The Yellow Room is a new bi-annual literary magazine publishing quality fiction by women writers residing in the UK. Each issue features around 12 short stories, a lively readers’ letters page and articles of interest to women writers. The magazine is professionally presented in A5 format with a two-colour glossy perfect bound cover. Website (a place where women writers can gather together for support, encouragement and friendship) and submission guidelines: www.theyellowroom-magazine.co.uk
Authearth
Authearth has been created as a community site for writers, cartoonists and readers to interact. From February they will be awarding monthly prizes of £50 (or its local equivalent) for the best member content in each of the following categories:audio, book review, book chapter, cartoons, column post (includes diaries) and poetry. Website: http://www.authearth.com
Bookhabit.com
On March 3rd 2008 Bookhabit.com will kick off an international competition for writers with a US $5000 prize for the winning book. The competition is free to enter and open to unpublished books, of any genre, with a minimum of 50,000 words. You will gain international exposure for your book, and potentially catch the attention of editors and publishers - and you can also earn money from the sales of your book. Details of this and more - see website.
International Aeon Award 2008 short fiction contest
Albedo One is Ireland’s premiere magazine of speculative fiction. The contest is open to submissions of up to 8000 words (no minimum word limit) in any speculative fiction genre, from Fantasy and Science Fiction to Horror or anything in-between or unclassifiable. The grand prize is 1000 euro and publication in Albedo One. The contest will run in four rounds from January 1st 2008 to November 30th 2008. Submissions can be made at any time between those two dates, and stories making the shortlist will be announced shortly after the end of each of the rounds, which end on March 31st, June 30th, September 30th and finally November 30th. After the last round, the top six stories from the shortlist will be chosen and passed on to respected science fiction, fantasy and horror author, Ian Watson, who will act as Grand Judge and pick the winner and second and third place stories. Full details: http://www.albedo1.com/html/aeon_award.html
Txt Lit
Txt Lit is a new literary genre of creative writing using a mobile phone texting system, or SMS (Short Message System). A single mobile phone text message contains just 160 characters, including spaces and punctuation. Each entry costs £1 plus the normal cost of a text message as charged by your network provider. You can enter each competition as many times as you like. First prize: at least £50. Competitions every month. More details on website at http://www.txtlit.co.uk
Harry Bowling Prize
Held every two years. Submit first chapter and synopsis of a novel set in London. Entry possible for anyone who has not previously published an adult novel. Submissions by March 31 each year. Entry fee: £10. More details online at http://www.harrybowlingprize.net
The Complete Works
A national two-year development programme for advanced Black and Asian poets. Are you a Black or Asian poet at the stage where you are committed to producing your first full-length collection? Would you benefit from a tailored programme of support and career development? For two years you will have an individually assigned poet-mentor offering you intensive critical feedback on your writing. You will also have access to a professional development programme including seven full days of seminars, critical reading sessions, meet-the-editor events and career support and advice. Peer support throughout the project will be encouraged and supported. Each year will feature a residential week of writing at Arvon for the group. The Complete Works will culminate in a final anthology and showcase event. To apply, send two copies of fifteen poems along with a covering letter outlining why you would like to join the programme and how you might benefit from it at this particular stage in your writing career. Full details: www.spreadtheword.org.uk
Gwilym Williams
Gwilym Williams (see Poetry section of the JBWB website) now has his own highly readable blog. Even if you're only remotely interested in poetry, pay Gwil and his friends a visit - and enjoy. You can find the blog HERE.
And now
Genteel Messages by Gwilym Williams. The bookshop at http://www.poetrymonthly.com or http://www.poetrymonthly.com/page46.htmlcontains a cover photo, a poem, an introduction and details of how to order. Unmissable.
Primary Life
The only lifestyle magazine for parents and teachers of primary school children in Coatbridge and Airdrie. The only lifestyle magazine for parents and teachers of primary school children in Coatbridge and Airdrie Needs writers able to help with this kind of project possibly those who are just starting out and would like to see their work in print. Up to £50 for an article, negotiable in the future. Download media pack and contact details from http://www.primarylifemagazine.co.uk
The Peter Pook Humorous Novel Competition
This is a FREE competition, in two parts, aimed at finding a modern successor to the late PETER POOK. A new edition of standard size (120mm x 180mm) paperback Pooks is being published by Emissary Publishing with captivating new cover designs by Richie Perrott. The winner of the competition will be announced on 8th September 2008 and published by Emissary Publishing within one year. Details: http://www.peterpook.com/peter_pook_competition.html
InterAct Short Story Competition/Writer in Residence Prize, £2000
InterAct Reading Service is launching a short story competition to find a writer in residence. The writer in residence will be appointed to develop new material for the library of reading material used by their actors in hospitals and stroke clubs. Details available from: www.interactreading.org
Daughter of Prophecy (Bron) by Iris Lloyd
Congratulations to Iris Lloyd, whose new book (the first in a series of wonderfully accomplished historical novels) is now published and available from Amazon. Gripping, insightful, funny and inspiring - unreservedly recommended.
Macmillan New Writing
Macmillan New Writing is an imprint within the Macmillan group, designed to give an opportunity for new authors to achieve publication. The books are published at the company's expense, no contribution costs will be sought from authors, and royalties on sales will be paid. The books are sold in the market by Macmillan and will be carried in the company's sales catalogues, but to keep costs to a minimum to allow the maximum number of new writers to get a chance at publication, all arrangements for publication and contracts with authors are standard. More details at: www.macmillannewwriting.com
Featureworld
Sell your Story with Featureworld.co.uk, your online media agent. Up to £6000 paid. Have you experienced a life-changing event? Beaten an illness? Blossomed after divorce? Found love? Want to expose a love-rat or cheat? Ever read a real life story in a national newspaper or women's magazine and thought 'That could be me.' Perhaps you dream of selling your life story and becoming famous. or being on TV? But maybe you're nervous about selling your story to a national newspaper or women's magazine yourself or through a big impersonal news agency? Featureworld is the place for you.
The Mammoth Book of Lesbian Erotica
Writers are wanted for a revised collection of short stories for The Mammoth Book of Lesbian Erotica by publishers Constable and Robinson. Contact editor@hotspotbooks.co.uk or see full details HERE.
Spirit Publishing
Spirit Publishing is 'the only independent route to being published without a huge initial outlay before your work goes to print'. They are 'dedicated to publishing quality written work without authors having to pay to publish and our work includes proofing, printing and management'. Authors become the marketing team, selling and distributing each other's books as well as their own. For each book sold that they distribute, one of their own is printed, distributed and sold. In this way, authors do not have to pay to be published, but work with Spirit Publishing to generate interest, media attention and sales. Website: http://www.spiritpublishing.co.uk
Keystrokes Magazine
Keystrokes is a new publication for the Worcestershire area. They are constantly looking for quality articles, essays, stories and poetry for inclusion each month. Articles and stories should be in the region of 1000-2000 words in length, poems around 60 lines maximum, although there is flexibility. All subjects are considered. Website: http://www.keystrokesmagazine.com
W.A.Harbinson
W.A.Harbinson, author of the bestselling novels, Genesis and Revelation, as well as the cult 'Projekt Saucer' series of high-tech thrillers, has a great new website up and running. Well worth a look! You can find it at www.waharbinson.eu.com
Delivered
Delivered accepts all genres and has a 3000 word limit. It includes poetry and a crossword both of which are open to contibutors.
Delivered costs £3.00 per issue or £10.00 for a one-year subscription.
There are prizes of £20.00 £15.00 & £10.00 for the top three stories per issue.
All authors receive a free copy if their work is published. (As from September issue due w/c 19th September).
Further details are on the website: www.grimmyproductions.co.uk
Bluechrome Publishing
Check out this excellent publisher's website, ideal for anyone interested in poetry or experimental fiction: Bluechrome Publishing And while you're there, spend some time on the Competitions page - there's something there for everyone.
Writing for Children & Ideas for Children's Writers
Here are two books I would recommend unreservedly to all of you who are writing for children. Pamela Cleaver's title Writing a Children's Book (2nd Edition) contain's invaluable help on every page and is available from Amazon.co.uk, as is her latest book Ideas for Children's Writers.
You can learn much more about Pamela by visiting her website - and while you're there, check out her excellent page of writing tips for children's writers. Sadly, Pam died suddenly on 23rd November, 2005. We shall miss her...
Congratulations to JBWB clients Shelia Crosby and Gail Crane whose short stories will be published this summer in two major UK magazines - Sheila's in Yours magazine and Gail's in The People's Friend.
Hey, Mr Big!
Jamie Gasking, aged 11, died in an accident at the Falls of Bruar in Perthshire, Scotland on 11th of July 2003. Since then, much of David Gasking's time - Jamie's father - has been filled with the production of a 'very different' kind of book, Hey, Mr Big! All proceeds go to The Jamie Fund to improve facilities for young people in and around Jamie's home village of Carr-Bridge in the North of Scotland. You can find more details on the Mr Big website at www.mr-big.ik.com . Please visit the website - or you can buy Hey, Mr Big! directly from Amazon by clicking on the cover above. Check on David's fund-raising progress so far by visiting the Highlands & Islands Arts Journal website, HERE.
Get Writing
Get Writing is the BBC's comprehensive writing website, supporting and advising audiences who desire to develop their creative writing skills. The site hosts a plethora of competitions often linked to BBC Dramas/Comedy & Radio, an ever-growing online community network of writers across the UK, an online writer's circle and discussion space for critical debate of writing across all genres. Highly recommended - pay a visit now.
Big Tex [t]
Big Tex [t] , a new biannual on-line journal, is seeking submissions of: Poetry, Fiction, Literary Criticism, Creative Nonfiction, Visual Art, Audio/Spoken Word. Full submission guidelines can be found at http://www2-english.tamu.edu/pubs/bigtext/
The Landing Magazine
The Landing Magazine is a quarterly print and online publication offering a variety of short stories, poetry, artwork, book reviews, and articles on any number of topics. No genre is off limits, however, the editorial staff prefers items with an edge, a twist, something that grabs the reader. All submissions should be directed to thelandingmag@yahoo.com in the form of an MS Word attachment or in the body of the e-mail. Please be sure to include the type of submission you are sending with a brief bio. Website: http://www.geocities.com/thelandingmag/
Vintage Romance Publishing
Vintage Romance Publishing, a US publisher of nostalgic romances, is proud to announce the release of its very first print novel. Written by Dawn Carrington, a multi-published author of fantasy and paranormal romance, Thirty Days Late depicts a historical romance set in 1933 Virginia. It is available online at www.vrpublishing.com , barnesandnoble.com, and booksamillion.com and will soon be available in national book stores.
Venus Press
Venus Press, a new e-publisher, specializes in erotic fiction, be it erotic romance or pure erotica. They publish all sub-genres, including fantasy, science fiction, suspense, historical, etc. The story must be engaging, with a solid plot and fully realized characters. The publisher has exciting lines opening up, including its Sons of Zeus and Venus Rising, which asks for new twists to classic Greek myths. So if this sounds like your cup of tea, head on over to www.venuspress.com and check out the submission guidelines. Just remember, at Venus Press, they take their tea hot, hot, hot.
Highlands & Islands Arts Journal
Writing can be a lonely business, particularly in the Highlands & Islands of Scotland - that's where the online Highlands & Islands Arts Journal comes in. Find all you need to know about forthcoming writing- and other arts-linked events at http://www.hi-arts.co.uk - highly recommended website.
Incidentally, Patrick Vickery, Highland author, and the writer of a series of articles called the Garden Blether which regularly appear on websites around the world, has recently had two articles - "The Topiary Blether" (which deals primarily with the relationship between topiary and haircuts) and "The Critter Blether" (which among other things describes the efforts of a NASA scientist, Claude, to deter chipmunks from eating his vegetable garden) - to be included in the Glasgow University (Department of English Literature) Scots Corpus archive of materials in January 2005. The Scots Corpus is a collection of writings and text that demonstrate Scotland's linguistic diversity, culture and identity, and aims to archive this information for future generations.
See also:
http://www.yourgarden.com/blether
http://www.geocities.com/gardenblethers
http://www.ruralgateway.org.uk
Full Moon Tales
Full Moon Tales invites submissions for well-written short stories (1500 to 3000 words) of any genre to begin publication in May 2005 as a twice yearly magazine. It offers a new outlet for both unpublished and well established writers, while raising money for the Wolf Trust with an OPTIONAL donation of £2 per story. Full submission guidelines are available by email (jeff.pyne@virgin.net) and all contributions should be sent (& SAE) to: Dr R. S. Pyne, Editor, Full Moon Tales, Bryn Teify, 2 Pencreigiau, Pontrhydfendigaid, Ystrad Meurig, Ceredigion, Wales, SY25 6EN. Payment at present is a copy of the magazine but hopefully this is only temporary until we get established. Subscriptions will be set at £5/year but submissions are not restricted to subscribers. Good horror stories are particularly welcome.
Poetry Salzburg Review
Highly recommended by Gwil Williams: 'It's a super thing, written in English, with over 200 pages in a glossy artwork cover and contains a variety of poems from many poets ranging from Martin Anderson to Vassilis Zambaras, translations ranging from Emanuele Bettini to Motokiyo Teami and several miscellaneous pieces of prose. The website is www.poetrysalzburg.com/psr Postal address is Poetry Salzburg Review, Dept. English and American Studies,University of Salzburg, Akademiestr. 24, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria. Potential contributors would do well to read a copy of the new-look Poetry Salzburg Review before sending in their material to get an impression of what's required.'
Write this Moment
Write this Moment is an exciting new web community for creative non-fiction writers. The site aims to profile non-fiction writers from around the world while also providing valuable resources and tools for its members. The web community has evolved from small press publication `Zing Review' which was piloted in the spring. In order to reach a wider audience, editor Carol Anne Strange decided to transform the publication to an online model and teamed up with New Media Designer, Andrew Richardson to launch writethismoment.com. Said Carol, "What started as a small press publication has given rise to a worldwide community for creative non-fiction writers. We believe that Write this Moment will offer a platform for new and established writers to feature their works, which will include inspiring prose, informative articles and enlightening reflections on all aspects of life, travel, love, nature, spirituality and world issues." The site will feature author profiles so that members can have their own web-presence. There will be a discussion board, advice and a variety of useful tools. Members can also enter writing competitions for a chance to be published in an anthology. Carol, who has almost 20 years experience as a freelance writer and author, believes the community will be popular: "Creative non-fiction writing is an emerging genre and there are so many talented writers out there, producing captivating material. We are working to ensure that Write this Moment will be a really useful resource that our members will benefit from." To register your interest and complete a short survey to identify what you want from the web community, please visit www.writethismoment.com . For general enquiries, please email Carol@writethismoment.com
The Society of Authors' Prizes (for published or unpublished authors):
Tom-Gallon Award for a short story. Eric Gregory Awards for poets under 30. McKitterick Prize for first-time novelists over 40. Betty Trask Prize for first-time novelists under 35. Details and entry forms from website: www.societyofauthors.org or email: info@societyofauthors.org or send SAE to Awards Secretary, Society of Authors, 84 Dravton Gardens, London SW10 9SB.
JBWB Competition runner-up now published
Joe Stein, recent runner-up in the JBWB Short Story Competition, is now a published author. His superb new novel Cold Fire, Calm Rage is available from Amazon and highly recommended.
LeafSalon
LeafSalon (www.leafsalon.co.nz) provides a lot of useful and up-to-date info on what is happening on the NZ literary scene. A friendly and highly recommended website.
Seventh Quark
Seventh Quark is a new A4 bimonthly literary fiction magazine with a difference. An invaluable resource for learning or improving craft, Seventh Quark will feature top-end literary shorts and at least one genre piece each issue, as well as reprints of winning fiction, guest authors, a quality craft article every issue aimed at intermediates, a detailed critique of one story every issue, reviews, letters and a slot for unpublished or little-published authors. The editorial board led by A lex Keegan has more than 500 publications and over 20 first prizes. There will be three regular competitions. Please contact seventhquarkcontact@btconnect.com or see subscription details on the website: www.7thquarkmagazine.com
Unheard Words
An online writer's group for 'people-of-colour' - a place to share experiences, thoughts, ideas and work. Visit by clicking HERE.
Sound of Battle
Alan O'Reilly's Sound of Battle tells a compelling story that will appeal to readers of historical fiction for its fast-pace, riveting detail, and deep characterizations. But, more, O'Reilly's underlying theme of how war tests the faith of even the most gung-ho of soldiers in the most justifiable of wars will ring true today. No matter which side one aligns oneself with, hawk or dove, Sound of Battle will leave the reader to thoughtfully question whether there are any winners once the war is over. Read more at Amazon.co.uk or (in the US) http://www.llumina.com/store/soundofbattle.htm
Snowbooks
Snowbooks is a new, exciting publishing company based in London who have set out to challenge and improve the way publishing works, by treating authors equitably and by aiming to make a real, valuable contribution to the process of getting a book from the author to the reader. Check out all they have to offer at www.snowbooks.com
SphinxBooks.com
SphinxBooks.com publishes novel-length mystery, sci-fi/fantasy and horror eBooks. The company is currently accepting submissions -- please review submissions guidelines at www.sphinxbooks.com/guidelines. Royalties paid. Managing Editor: Alice Weiss, 140 South Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94402, USA. Email: submissions@sphinxbooks.com Website: www.sphinxbooks.com
Vintage Romance Publishing
A message from Dawn Whitmire, Editor of Vintage Romance Publishing:
Vintage Romance Publishing is a new epublishing company specializing in nostalgic romances. We are currently looking for old-fashioned writers with a flair for stepping back into the early to mid twentieth century and allowing readers to see those eras through their eyes. Take a peek at our webpage: http://dawnwhitmire.tripod.com/vintage.htm . Dawn Whitmire, Editor: vintageromance2004@yahoo.com .
Castle of Park
Castle of Park, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Castle of Park, Scotland, famous for its all-inclusive writing courses tutored by skilled international writing tutors in beautiful and peaceful surroundings with elegant castle accommodation. Visit the website
Chance to write (and do other things) for the BBC
WRITERSROOM - The BBC's online resource for writing for television, radio and film.
Everyone has a talent. Check out the BBC Talent website and see if you can offer what they're looking for: www.bbc.co.uk/talent
Get Writing: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/getwriting
The Historical Novel Society has named Jacqui Bennett Writers Bureau its critique and editorial service of choice. Together, we make an unbeatable team for new writers of historical fiction. If your work shows real promise, JBWB will pass the manuscript to the Historical Novel Society for a second reading. Then, if the HNS agree with the assessment, they promise to recommend it to suitable agents and/or publishers – at no additional cost. Find out more about JBWB's editorial services HERE
Market News and Competitions
Have you seen the new Poetry Pages section yet? Click here to visit.
THE HARROW has released its first anthology Fear of the Unknown. All proceeds will benefit Bone Cancer International, Inc. Anyone considering submitting work to The Harrow is encouraged to study the submission guidelines at http://www.theharrow.com/submit.html. Co-Editors: Kfir Luzzatto & Monica O'Rourke. Art Editor: Jason Nolan
Since this is a charity project, you are, of course, encouraged to buy a copy (which is well worth the $6). Please remember that this is a charity publication and that all proceeds benefit Bone Cancer International, Inc.
THE HARROW is pleased to announce its new anthology Midnight Lullabies. All proceeds will benefit Doctors Without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières.
_________
See full guidelines at http://www.theharrow.com/books/ml/index.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kfir Luzzatto
Good fiction (like the winner of this quarter's competition) is all too hard to come by, these days. Look at the bestseller list almost any week and the chances are that a fair percentage of what you find there will be formulaic, mass-market, pulp fiction. Nothing wrong at all with this escapist stuff (I read loads of it), but how refreshing it is to sink one's teeth into real writing. And you can do exactly that if you take the time to visit Kfir Luzzatto's website at http://www.kfir-l.com/index.htm. Here you will find originality of thought, a genuine sense of humour and entertaining, perfect prose from a writer whose first language isn't English. Astounding!
And now, an opportunity to read Kfir's full-length novel Crossing the Meadow, available from Amazon (and receiving rave reviews there).
VOTED "BEST HORROR NOVEL" IN THE 2003 PREDITORS AND EDITORS READERS POLL !
Crossing the Meadow
by
Kfir Luzzatto
(CLICK ON THE COVER)
UKAuthors
UKAuthors was initially launched in January 2002 by Richard Harris and Andrea Lowne as a free, UK-based website on which writers and poets could publish their work and receive ratings, comments and feedback, and read and comment on the work of their fellow-members. UKA also features a hugely popular Chatroom where members meet to discuss their work (and other things!), a Discussion Forum section, polls, Shoutbox (members can leave messages to each other on the front page of the site), internal personal messages, ratings and comment facilities, a Random Story button and numerous other serious and fun gizmos to play with. There is also an extensive resource directory containing (mainly) UK competitions, markets, news, publishers, books, agents, small presses and much more. UKA is in the process of publishing its first prose and poetry anthology Voices from the Web, containing work by UKA members, and plans to make the anthology an annual event. Visit UKAuthors by CLICKING HERE
Mslexia
No other magazine provides Mslexia's unique mix of debate and analysis, advice and inspiration; news, reviews, interviews; competitions, events, courses, grants. All served up with a challenging selection of new poetry and prose. Mslexia is read by top authors and absolute beginners. A quarterly masterclass in the business and psychology of writing, it's the essential magazine for women who write. Mslexia, PO Box 656, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE99 1PZ; tel: 0191 261 6656; e-mail: postbag@mslexia.demon.co.uk; website: www.mslexia.co.uk
Solent News and and Photo Agency
Got a story? Think it might make a national paper or maybe a women's magazine? Get in touch! Solent News will give you an honest opinion. If they like the story, they pay top rates. Ring in confidence, or email. Based in Hampshire, England, and established since the 1960s, their team of reporters, photographers and feature writers produce top quality work for the UK and world media market. Website: http://www.solentnews.biz/
ANDREA SEMPLE
Published author Andrea Semple has an excellent website with loads of help and resources for writers, all of it presented in a humorous yet extremely lucid way. Sign up now for Andrea's 'Writing Tips' monthly newsletter.
Anon
A new print-based poetry magazine that is interested in the poem without reference to the poet's reputation or previous work. It seeks to create new standards of impartiality in the publishing of poetry by innovations in submission and assessment: poems are submitted anonymously; three external readers independent of the editor and of each other assess every poem submitted. Anon provides a level playing field, and puts the focus squarely on poems rather than on poets. With Issue 1 it will establish a unique and significant presence in the world of poetry magazines. Known, unknown and emerging poets are warmly invited to submit unpublished work. Website: http://www.blanko.org.uk/anon/
Blue Badge Poetry
Writers wanted for debut issue of the biannual Blue Badge Poetry magazine. The magazine is for everyone whose life has been touched by disability in some way, or at some time. All themes, styles and length considered. Care workers, support workers, friends and relatives also free to write. Send submissions with s.a.e. to: D M Heath PO BOX 184, South Ockendon, Essex RM15 5WT
Eastern Rainbow
Eastern Rainbow welcomes submissions of sci-fi/fantasy/horror poetry, prose and artwork. We also welcome news from like-minded publications, which we'll be happy to publish free. Guidelines Poetry: Must not exceed 32 lines. Prose: Must not exceed 500 words Artwork: Must be b/w, and not exceed 6x4 inches Eastern Rainbow began life in 1992, and contains content relating to 20th Century culture. All submissions, with SAE/IRC to: Eastern Rainbow, 17 Farrow Road, Whaplode Drove, Spalding, Lines, PE12 0TS. See also Peace and Freedom Press: Website: http://uk.geocities.com/p_rance/pandf.htm
Connections Magazine
The magazine Connections is six years old, and has just been redesigned. Highly recommended, with a great short story competition. Email the editor, Jane Hardy, for subscription details: jane@hardy91.fsnet.co.uk
Scriptwriters, take note:
Sherriffs - Performance Writers Group http://www.writersgroup.co.uk/ Based at the Riverhouse Barn in Elbridge, Surrey, this group aims to develop and write professional theatre for the stage and screen. Find out how to become a member.
Complicated Productions Theatre Company http://www.complicatedproductions.co.uk/ Operates across the south east of England, this company aims to produce intimate drama and comedy with the emphasis upon new writing. Read about its current production.
If you're writing - or merely interested in - Historical Fiction, you can't do better than join the Historical Novel Society. For full details, see the HNS website
Useful websites
Want to find out what you need in the way of postal charges for work sent overseas? www.mirror.org/terry.hickman/Postage.html is the site to check out. It covers postal costs for the USA, Canada, the UK and Australia. New Zealand even gets a mention.
Plenty of help and information (particularly for American writers) can be found at the National Writers Union website: www.nwu.org
Milton Keynes writing group, Speakeasy, have set up a website (www.mkweb.co.uk/speakeasy). They publish their programme, directions to the venue, news about members' successes, competitions news etc..
New Low Price : Jacqui's book 'From Start to Finish'
The entire book From Start to Finish is now available to download for just £3.00, combined with an extra special and UNMISSABLE FREE OFFER.
Click below to find out more...
Take a look at the stunning new novels from Neil Mavrick. Here's a writer with genuine originality and something to say. CLICK HERE
The Scottish Poetry Library
The Scottish Poetry Library's project to expand European poetry collections and information resources, both in native languages and in translation, is well worth a look at. Since its foundation in 1984, the library has amassed an impressive collection of written works, as well as tapes and videos. Although the emphasis is on 20th-century poetry written in Scotland, in Scots, Gaelic and English, historic Scottish poetry and contemporary works from almost every part of the world feature too. The library is a registered charity, so all its resources, advice and information are accessible, free of charge. Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton's Close, Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DT; tel: 0131 557 2876; fax: 0131557 8393; e-mail: inquiries@spl.org.uk; website: www.spl.org.uk
Congratulations to my client Liz Hinds, whose new book A Cop for Christ is heading for the top of Hodder's Christian bestsellers list. This title tells the dramatic true life story of Mike DiSanza, from his tough childhood among the gangs of New York, through 20 gritty years with the NYPD and his astonishing ministry. 'An amazing true story of a New York Cop: powerful stuff!'
You don't have to be a Christian to enjoy this superb book - find out more by clicking on the cover or HERE
Check out Roy Eagleton's website by clicking here - then, when you realise how much you like the guy, buy his excellent fast-paced thriller Mandible. It comes very highly recommended by his editor (guess who that is?).
Just when you thought there couldn't possibly be another slant on the age-old Kennedy story, friend and client Jon Symons brings out a book that turns everything on its head and asks the tantalising question…what if? The Day After Tomorrow is a fast-paced thriller that cleverly blends fact with fiction and leads its readers to question their own perception of Kennedy, Camelot and the one thousand days of unassailable power. Buy it in your local bookshop. Highly recommended.
Soho Press
Soho Press (http://www.sohopress.com) is a US publisher of hardbacks and paperbacks covering a wide range of genres: literary fiction, thrillers, mysteries, adventure, historical, or feminist. Setting can be the USA or anywhere in the world. It also handles non-fiction in the form of travel, autobiography, and biography. Recent titles have, for instance, included a tale of hitchhiking round Japan. Juris Jurjevics, publisher/editor-in-chief, prefers complete manuscripts for fiction submissions, outline and sample chapters for non-fiction. Two book series are also featured: Hera, historical fiction reprints with powerful female characters; and Soho Crime, mysteries with overseas settings (including the British Isles). Completed manuscripts should be 60,000 words or more. Competition, however, is steep. Soho gets some 7,000 submissions a year and publishes only 40 of them. Nevertheless, it places a high priority on unsolicited manuscripts; agents are not required. Write to Soho Press at 853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, USA. Be sure to enclose enough postage (IRCs) for the return of any materials.
Now Available: Jacqui's book 'From Start to Finish'
Market News from Australia & New Zealand
Stride Magazine
After 33 issues as a poetry magazine, four issues as an 'occasional arts journal' and a few years gap. Stride Magazine has a new website www.stridemagazine.com - a gathering of new poetry, short prose, articles, news, and reviews. The editor, Rupert Loydell, welcomes submissions of four or five poems, short prose, reviews or articles. Please submit in the body of e-mails (not attachments) to: submissions@stridemagazine.co.uk or snail mail with sae to: Stride Magazine, 11 Sylvan Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 6EW. If in doubt about what to submit, please ask first - editor@stridemagazine.co.uk
Sitric Books
A new Irish imprint is accepting mss and submissions for all titles in the commercial writing field. Dublin-based Sitric Books published its first four titles this year. Spokesperson, Brendan Barrington says that while they will expand the list, they have no firm amount of titles in mind. 'We have started quite small and are hoping we will be able to expand next year. It really depends on the material. In principle we are open to fiction, various types of non-fiction, and to just about anything commercial.' Sitric has grown from the more literary Lilliput publishing house. It is a separate company, but will draw on Lilliput's experience in publishing. The titles, while aimed at the Irish market, will be distributed in the UK through Central Books, and through wholesalers in the USA. 'We are considering a number of things for next year but we would not forbid people sending in proposals with samples of their work,' says Barrington. Enquiries and submissions should be made to Antony Farrell, Sitric Books, 62 Sitric Road, Arbour Hill, Dublin 7, Ireland Tel: Int +353-1-67116 47; e-mail: lilliput@indigo.ie
Jacqui's Recommended Books for Writers
Great Books on Writing - Unmissable Bargains
Twa Dugs
A new literary magazine wants short stories, poems, sagas, verse, articles, opinions, cartoons and illustrations. Using the title of a Burns poem -Twa Dugs (Two Dogs) - the magazine uses both verse and text. An original touch is that poetry will be printed from bottom to top of even numbered pages while text is printed in the normal top-to-bottom form on odd numbered pages - allowing the magazine to be read either from the front or from the end. Ralph Garret, a full time vet and joint-editor, said: 'The purpose is to allow as many writers as possible to have work published. We prefer submissions on disk or e-mail either in text files or Word documents. Otherwise, A4 size paper, double-spaced and typed on one side of the sheet only.' The magazine has a target size of 64 pages. Depending on the response, publication will be quarterly or bi-monthly. Editor's tip: 'Keep short stories to 2,000 words or less, our preferred length, but more important it is a handy size for radio. Publish with Twa Dugs then submit your work to the BBC.' Poems should be 40 lines or less - and send us stories and poems for children as well as adults. Enquiries: Twa Dugs Literary Magazine, 111 Main Street, West Kilbride, Ayrshire KA23 9AR. Email: ralph@rgarratt.freeserve.co.uk
The Word Pool
An excellent website for writers for children (highly recommended):
and now their recent addition:
http://www.ukchildrensbooks.co.uk - the directory of the on-line world of UK children's books.
If you're serious about submitting scripts or ideas to the BBC, this is the resource for you. There's also plenty of general advice for writers, if you take time to glean the words carefully. Visit the BBC Online Writers' Room.
Jacqui Bennett Writers Bureau Competition - now with CASH prizes!
Unpublished novelist? Read on...
Irish publisher, Mentor Press, has issued an invitation to unpublished authors to submit their work for consideration. 'We want to let people know that we are open to submissions and that we want to expand our adult fiction list,' says editor Claire Haugh. Claire will look at proposals for popular fiction, mystery, crime and romance in the main but, 'While we are seeking popular fiction, we are not excluding anything else'. The company publishes in Ireland and negotiates UK and foreign rights with other publishers. A brief summary (500-1,000 words) and one sample chapter should be sent in the first instance.
Contact: Claire Haugh, Editor, Mentor Press, 43 Furze Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin 18, Republic of Ireland.
Michael Connelly If, like me, you're a fan of this tremendously accomplished crime/thriller writer, you may not know that he has his own expansive and informative website. He'll even email you to keep you up to date with his latest work. If you've never heard of him but you like well-written American thrillers, then pay his site a visit and be pleasantly surprised. All you have to do to get there is CLICK HERE.
Virgin Publishing Ltd - Black Lace: In addition to full-length fiction, Black Lace publishes roughly two short story collections a year. Unsolicited submissions are welcomed in both formats - but from female authors only. It is also most important to note that if you are intending to submit your manuscript, you should initially obtain a copy of their guidelines. You can do this easily enough by sending an SAE to: Black Lace Guidelines, Virgin Publishing, Thames Wharf Studios, Rainville Road, London W6 9HT.
Also
Collective Publishing - paperback publishers. They are looking for erotic stories between 3,000 and 10,000 words. Submission guidelines: http://www.collectivepublishing.co.uk/html/submissions.html Contact: Freya Heims, Collective Publishing, P.O. Box 474, Fareham, Hampshire, UK.
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