WriteMentor Novel and Picture Book Award

WriteMentor is a UK-based writing organisation that helps advance the craft, confidence, and careers of writers through our community. In partnership with Darley Anderson Agency, the WriteMentor 2026 Novel & Picture Book Award is looking for new writing talent in children’s, young adult, and adult fiction.

Now in its eighth year, the awards invite entries worldwide within three categories: Picture Books, Children’s (Chapter Books, Middle Grade, Young Adult), and Adult fiction.

The winner of each category will receive a £500 cash prize, a 45-minute one-to-one virtual consultation with the agent judge for that category, and a one-year free membership to the Hub, WriteMentor’s online membership platform, worth £150. The consultation will consist of a 15-minute discussion of the winning entry and 30 minutes for additional questions including industry insights and career guidance. Entrants can choose between a standard entry and a feedback entry. Entrants must not have an agent or a traditional publishing deal.

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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