John Steinbeck Award for Fiction

The John Steinbeck Award for Fiction is an annual short fiction contest run by Reed Magazine, the literary journal of San José State University’s Department of English and Comparative Literature. Named in honour of the Nobel Prize-winning author who was born and raised in the region, the award recognises exceptional stand-alone short stories across a wide range of styles, including experimental and literary approaches.

Entrants must submit an original, unpublished short story of up to 5,000 words. Submissions must be stand-alone works and not excerpts or chapters from a longer piece. Multiple entries are permitted as separate submissions, each requiring its own fee. Unsuccessful contest entries may still be considered for publication in the journal or online.

The $25 entry fee includes a copy of the latest edition of Reed Magazine; US-addressed submitters receive a print copy, while those with international addresses receive a digital copy. Results are communicated to entrants by the end of December 2026.

Is this event legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any opportunity, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work. Check the organizer’s website and carefully read the terms and conditions!

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