Gransnet children's book writing competition

Are you a budding children's book author who's always dreamed of seeing their name in print? Then STOP THE PRESS as we have some very exciting news...

We're working with independent publisher Bobaloo Books and have launched a nationwide competition in a hunt for new writing talent, seeking one winner whose children's book will be published next year.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for an unpublished author (although self-published authors are acceptable), someone who has written or has an idea for something really special that will delight and capture the imagination of the children it is written for. We are looking for books for a younger audience so for ages between 3 and 12 please. It can be a chapter book or a simpler story. You don't need to supply illustrations.

The judges:

The judging panel, led by Bobaloo's Publisher, Janet Kelly, will include Cari Rosen and Lara Crisp, Gransnet Editors. Bobaloo Books will whittle the entries down to a shortlist of 25, and the judges will select one winner, whose name will be announced in September.

What is the prize?

The winner will receive a publishing contract from Bobaloo Books, and their book will be published in Spring 2017. They will receive advice on how to build their profile as a writer, as well as the editing, design, illustration, print, sales, marketing and distribution from Bobaloo Books. 10 runners up will be given signed copies of Doris Morris by Janet Kelly and feedback on their entries, with guidance on how to progress in their writing career.

Janet Kelly, Founder of Bobaloo Books, says: "This is an amazing opportunity for those unsung heroes who create wonderful stories for their (or other people's) children, grandchildren and young people. The winner will benefit from expert advice as well as a ready-made audience and considerable professional support for their work."

To enter:

• Please email [email protected] with a one-page synopsis and sample chapter (or equivalent sample pages for a story for younger children).
• Please also include your Gransnet username (this is for registered users only) so we can verify your entry.
• Please note that we are looking for books suitable for children up to the age of 12.
• The closing date for entries is 31 July 2016 and the winner will be notified no later than 15 September.
• You can read the rest of the competition's terms and conditions here.