23 January 2024
|
The competition for stories up to 8,000 words has a £15,000 first prize
A further four shortlisted entrants will each receive £600. Winners will be braodcast on BBC Radio 4 and avaiilable to listen to on BBC Sounds. The five winning stories will be published in an anthology by Comma Press. This year's judging panel is chaired by Paddy O'Connell.
'I was saved from reader’s block by short stories,' said Paddy. 'I still favour a slim volume over a massive tome, and I know this makes me the perfect reader for this award. Zadie Smith and David Sedaris saved me in the pandemic and I send Alan Bennett’s The Uncommon Reader to everyone in need of a lift. To be named a judge is a delight and a privilege as I have never knowingly won any award myself. I can only offer myself as an impartial and flawed reader but will be in the company of fellow judges who can educate me as well as inspire me.'
To enter the BBC National Short Story Award with Cambridge University, submit original fiction no longer than 8,000 words. Writers entering the BBC NSSA must have a previous record of publication of creative writing in the UK.
Entry is free. Each writer may enter only one story.
2024 also marks the 10th anniversary of the BBC Young Writers' Award, which is for stories by people aged 14-18.
The closing date to enter the BBC NSSA 2024 is 18 March.
For full details see the website.
For more writing inspiration, subscribe to our bestselling monthly magazine and receive your first 3 issues for just £3. Claim this offer here