Tell Your Story. Change Someone Else's.
This contest is all about great stories for the millions of teens and adults who need them.
Compelling themes. Relatable characters. Approachable language.
submission guidelines
These guidelines can give you a sense of what we are looking for. Submissions will range from 1,000 - 15,000 words.
*More specific guidelines for categories can be found on the Award Categories page.
past winners
These wonderful stories represent some of the most successful submissions from our previous contests. Browse for a more complete picture of what to create!
Why Write?
Story Shares is a nonprofit focused on engaging and supporting struggling readers. The stories generated through our contests make a real difference. They serve the 774 million teens and adults around the world who lack key literacy skills... in pursuit of a more literate society!
The best submissions from our previous contests have:
- Reached over 250,000 students in all 50 states and over 80 countries globally
- Been recognized by The Library of Congress, Forbes, The International Literacy Association, Teach for America, and more
- Begun to inspire a love of reading
Submissions open until July 27, 2018
$3,000
This one is about voices that too often go unheard. We need authentic characters & narratives for a range of identities & experiences… including LGBTQIA, people with disabilities, & ethnic, racial, cultural, & religious minorities.
$5,000
Our first regional award, this category is focused on building a new shelf that features Texas with its unique culture, people, and history. Submissions will be a bit shorter, either short stories or nonfiction passages.
$2,000
These stories are all about people. With teen & adult characters that are strong, flawed, relatable, diverse, & lovable, they'll hook readers by shedding light on the human experience in all of its simple complexity.
Learn more about the contest here.
