I am very pleased to be a judge for an exciting new initiative launched this week by Waterstone’s. They are looking for the next great writing talent to emerge from within its stores and offices. The Bookseller’s Bursary will offer two booksellers the chance to go on one of the Arvon Foundation’s renowned creative writing courses, as well as give them a cash prize of £500.
The Bookseller’s Bursary is open to all current permanent members of staff serving either in any of Waterstone’s bookshops or in any other function, such as at Head Office or in the field. Entrants are invited to submit a sample of writing up to 3,000 words in length, on any subject as long as the entry is fiction, narrative non-fiction or children’s writing aimed at ages 5 and up. Entries will initially be judged by a panel of booksellers and Head Office staff, before a final shortlist is judged by an industry panel consisting of Fiona Kennedy (Waterstone’s Non-Fiction Category Manager, Ariane Koek (Director, Arvon Foundation), Francesca Main (Simon and Schuster Commissioning Editor), and Simon Trewin (United Agents). The winners will be announced in September.
Simon Trewin commented, “The world needs to encourage new writers – they are our lifeblood. I am thrilled to be part of this wonderful initiative.”
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