Lantern Lighters Contest

The Lantern Lighters Contest is run by The Lantern and the Pen, a small press dedicated to creating fiction for children. The contest is designed specifically for teen writers taking their first steps in submitting work, offering a safe and supportive environment to develop their craft.

Entrants must submit an original short story of up to 1,000 words centred on the theme of Belonging, written for an upper Middle Grade or YA audience. Accepted genres are contemporary, historical fiction, fantasy, and science fiction. Stories must not contain profanity, gore, or sexual content, and no part of the story may be generated or edited by AI. Up to two submissions per author are permitted.

The first-place winner receives a $50 Amazon gift card, the Lantern Lighters 2026 Award, editorial feedback, and publication on the website and social media. Second place receives a $25 Amazon gift card, editorial feedback, and publication; third place receives publication on the website and social media.

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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