Local Language Publishing Program Writing Competition 2008 Room to Read

Local Language Publishing Program Writing Competition Room to Read is currently promoting its first Local Language Publishing Writing Competition that is open to all writers over the age of 18. There are cash prizes of R10 000 each for the best five stories. Independent judges, who will be looking for such qualities as originality, imagination and flair, will read the entries. Most importantly, they will consider how the story will appeal to children from a range of South African backgounds. The purpose of this competition is to encourage the writing and production of children's literature in South Africa, especially in indigenous languages. We plan to publish the best of these works in 2008.

Competition rules The competition is not open to Room to Read South Africa staff and their immediate families and the judges of the competition. Authors must be 18 and over. No entries will be returned and Room to Read South Africa will not be accountable for any entries that do not reach our office. Room to Read South Africa will publish the winning manuscripts only if they meet our publishing requirements. Non-winning entries may also qualify for publication. Room to Read South Africa has the right to edit and revise the manuscripts according to their requirements. The judges' decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. There is no restriction on the number of entries made by any one person; however, an official entry form must accompany each separate entry.

Requirements/Criteria

The manuscripts must be original and previously unpublished. Manuscripts must be suitable for children aged 6 -14 years, and can be written in any of the 11 official languages of South Africa. Stories will be adapted/ translated into all 11official languages. The stories should be enjoyable and age appropriate and suitable for children in rural and urban environments. Length: around 600 words for Foundation Phase (6-9 years). Around 1200 words for 10-14 years. CLOSING DATE: 30 June 2008 PLEASE NOTE:

Copyright in text will remain with the author. No royalties will be paid . Manuscripts must be sent to: Local Language Publishing Program Writing Competition Room to Read South Africa Postnet Suite 172 Private Bag X 15 MENLOPARK 0102 OR Corner Hilda and Arcadia Street Hatfield Gardens, Unit F1 HATFIELD 3

NOTE: Please ensure that you have a tracking number which will enable you to follow up whether your post was received. A copy of the entered manuscript should be kept as no entries will be returned. Only winners and authors of publishable manuscripts will be contacted.