Contests! Contests! Contests!

In my ongoing quest for writing contests that are both reputable and affordable, I am thrilled to have unearthed one for novels. While contests for short stories and poetry abound, contests for novels are few and far between.

2011 Strongest Start Novel Competition is hosted by Create Space, the self-publishing arm of Amazon.com and The Next Big Writer. The grand prize winner wins $300 and a self-publishing package from Create Space.

While I do not necessarily advocate self-publishing for fiction writers, I do see this contest as an opportunity to receive professional feedback on the opening chapters of our books and a shot at winning one of the runner-up $150 prizes. Winning a contest like this is a terrific feather in the cap when searching for an agent or publisher.

So here is the low-down:

1) There is no entry fee, BUT...
2) You must be register with The Next Big Writer website to enter AND there is a membership fee involved (which is comparable to most novel contest entry fees)
3) Submit the first 3 chapters via email at the The Next Big Writer website

Another CONTEST to consider ends TODAY (April 26th!). The Write Path blog is offering an autographed copy of Holly Black's new novel The Red Glove.

The rules are as follows:

1. You must be a follower of the The Write Path blog. (If you're not, sign up!)
2. You must post the contest on the Internet ie... your own blog, facebook page or twitter, etc.
3. Leave a comment in The Write Path's comment section stating 1. Where you posted the info and 2. Answer the question: If you had the ability to curse someone, what would you do?(keep it pg-13 please)
4. All entries are due in by 9 am PCT on Tuesday, April 26th. I'll then pick the best, most creative curse, (in my opinion) and announce the winner.

Even if you miss entering this contest, Dorine (the blog's host) holds similar contests from time to time, so it's worth following.

In the meantime, keep an eye out for my next blog which will highlight a terrific new children's picture book Why Do I Have To Make My Bed? by Wade Bradford.