Lantern Lighters Contest

Lantern Lighters is a short story contest aimed at teen writers, created as a supportive space for emerging voices to practice their craft. This year’s theme is “Belonging,” and accepted genres include contemporary, historical fiction, fantasy, and science fiction, provided each story centers on that theme. Submissions should be written with an upper middle grade and/or YA audience in mind, and authors may submit up to two stories each.

Stories must not exceed 1,000 words and must be formatted in 12-point Times New Roman with double-spaced paragraphs. No part of the story may be AI-generated or AI-edited, and submissions must avoid profanity, gore, sexual content, or innuendo. Entrants may have their work read or critiqued by friends or a professional editor before submitting.

Three places are awarded. The winner receives a $50 Amazon gift card, the Lantern Lighters 2026 Award, editorial feedback, and publication of their story on the website and social media. Second place receives a $25 Amazon gift card, editorial feedback, and publication; third place receives publication only.

Is this competition legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any event, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work.

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