Authors of young adult novels, rejoice: here’s an opportunity to fund your literary project and be published!
Aġenzija Żgħażagħ and the National Book Council are now accepting applications for the Literary Contest of Novels for Youth 2020.
Both entities are organising this contest to select, reward and publish Maltese novels specifically aimed at young people, and that explore themes related to adolescence. The ultimate aim is to widen the breadth of Maltese literature, thereby sparking young people’s interest to read books in Maltese.
If you are 20 years of age or over, have an original work of between 20,000 to 25,000 words, which is written in Maltese and which has never been published, then you’re eligible to participate.
Besides four copies of the manuscript, you are being asked to also submit a filled-in application form with your original signature, a photocopy of your ID card, and a 500-word synopsis of the story being submitted.
All entries will be judged by three adjudicators based on four criteria: development of plot and characters, originality, language and quality. The winner, to be announced on the first week of January 2021, will take home a commemorative trophy and certificate, and win €1,000. In addition, they will be asked to sign a contract and be offered funding for the publication of their work with a publisher of their choice.
Deadline for the submission of applications is noon of 7 September, 2020.
Visit Aġenzija Żgħażagħ's website, the National Book Council website or send an email for more information or to download the application.