We are really pleased to announce a new partnership with Legend Press for our third annual Book Edit Writers' Prize. Aiming to support talented writers who might not otherwise have access to the industry, the Writers’ Prize is a national writing competition for unpublished British and/or UK-based novelists from communities and backgrounds currently underrepresented in UK publishing.
We are also delighted to confirm that this year the prize will be judged by acclaimed writer Deepa Anappara, author of Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line and editor of Letters to a Writer of Colour.
By joining forces with Legend Press — an independent house dedicated to championing original voices — we hope to amplify the voices of writers from underrepresented communities and provide them with the necessary tools and resources to bring their stories to the forefront.
“The Book Edit Prize was a really special experience for me. I’d never read my work aloud before, so having Rebecca’s expert training really gave me the confidence to take part - and even to enjoy it! Being part of such a prestigious award meant that my work was shared with some incredible agents - I had a full manuscript request before we’d even finished the Zoom session!”
‘This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to improving access to the publishing industry for all,’ says Emily Pedder, Founding Director at The Book Edit. ‘The prize is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on talented writers from communities that have been historically underrepresented in UK publishing.’
Lauren Wolff-Jones, Commissioning Editor at Legend Press, says ‘I am so incredibly honoured to be partnering with The Book Edit on the Writers’ Prize. Emily shares not only a passion for discovering new talent but also a commitment to inclusivity for the literary landscape. As a mentor for this prestigious prize, I am thrilled to be able to help nurture creativity and guide authors in what is such a competitive market. I can’t wait to discover each unique story that emerges from this collaboration.’
2023 Writers’ Prize Judge, Deepa Anappara
Deepa Anappara, the judge for this year's Writers' Prize, says ‘I am thrilled to judge the Book Edit Writer's Prize, which was set up only three years ago and has already had tremendous success. Despite recent initiatives, access to publishing remains difficult for those in marginalised groups, and the Book Edit prize aims to highlight the incredible diversity of talent in this country. To be part of the prize is a real privilege, and I am looking forward to reading the submissions.’
“The fact that this competition is for under-represented writers, and free to enter, is another wonderful opportunity for unpublished novelists to gain access to the industry and to get their work in front of top literary agents. The advice, training and support from Emily and Rebekah - both before the showcase and afterwards - is phenomenal, and it is obvious they’re committed to getting underrepresented voices out there. I am so grateful to have been a part of this amazing experience, and to have forged strong friendships with the other winners chosen. Opportunities like this for writers are very few and far between - go for it!”
Submissions for the third Writers' Prize will open on 11th September 2023 and close on 23rd October 2023.
The eight winners will have the chance to read their work at a live Zoom showcase event in front of industry professionals and The Book Edit’s contacts. After the event, an anthology of the readings will be published on The Book Edit’s website. Winners will also have the opportunity to rehearse and train for the showcase event, and all entrants will receive advice on other options including mentoring, courses and editing. The competition is completely free to enter.
As a result of the partnership, this year’s winners will have the added bonus of submitting the first chapters of their novels to Lauren Wolff-Jones, followed by an hour’s Zoom mentoring session during which Lauren will provide feedback and guidance.
For information about former prize winners, visit here.
Any questions about the prize, please email writersprize@thebookedit.co.uk.