Oh boy! Contests!

Since I’ve started this blog, I’ve had a few people like my posts, and a few people decide to follow along with what I’ve done. To you, I thank you for your valuable time and consideration.

Now I’d like to return the favor, in a couple of instances. There are a couple of writing opportunities that you, dear reader, may be interested in pursuing. If you’re like me and want to get your words out to more people, these could be valuable avenues to pursue.

First is a blog known as “The Drowning Gull.” The young woman who runs this place is looking to start a literary magazine, and she is open for submission. You can read more details at her page, but I’ll give you some of the details here – she is looking for submissions that are good stories that are 2,000 words or fewer, non-fiction, poems, artwork and more. Now one thing to keep in mind that is this isn’t a paying gig. She is just starting up, and doesn’t have a budget to pay artists. But she seems optimistic and eager, and has a good attitude about it, so why not give her a hand?

The second opportunity is from a new publishing company called Endever Publishing. They also are trying to get off the ground, and have started a contest to get some momentum going. They are looking for short works of fiction that are 500 words or less. A tough challenge – it’s more microfiction than anything – but certainly nothing an experienced and enterprising writer can’t handle. (In fact, for a while I enjoyed trying to create short stories 100 words or less! I may dust one off and submit it to the contest). The winner of the contest will receive a prize of $150.00.

There is one thing to consider, though. This is a contest that has a prize, but its purpose also is to raise funds to get the publishing company up and running. As a result, there is a $10, nonrefundable entry fee for each submission. That fee may balk some writers, but if things go well, even submitting could put you in their minds. Once you finish your novel and are looking for a publisher, don’t you think it would be worth a few points if they remember you as one of the writers who helped fund their company?

I’m hoping that, as other opportunities present themselves, I can share them here with you. Contests can be fun, and a good way to get your works into a larger market. It will get it read, at least.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that you might be competing against me…. Bring it on. I like a challenge.