Writing competition launched to commemorate 650th milestone of Julian of Norwich writing
To celebrate the 650th anniversary of the first woman to publish a book in English, a special writing competition is being launched – and it needs YOU!
Together with the Friends of Julian of Norwich, the Eastern Daily Press (EDP) is running a competition for children and young people aged between four and 18.
Free-to-enter, entrants are asked to submit beautifully composed prose or poetry up to a maximum of 500 words on the theme “Divine Love”.
The theme takes its name from the publication by Julian of Norwich, believed to be the first woman to be published in English, whose book Revelations of Divine Love tells the story of her experiences 650 years ago and the wonderful conclusions she drew from them.
The winner will receive £100 worth of book vouchers, the runner-up £50 worth of book vouchers, and any honourable mentions £30 worth of book vouchers.
There will also be a whole host of other goodies up for grabs – including prizes from Norwich’s independent bookshop Bookbugs and Dragon Tales and the National Centre for Writing – which will be announced in the EDP.
How to enter
Interpreting the theme “Divine Love”, children and young people aged between four and 18 can submit one piece of work – either fiction, non-fiction, or poetry – up to a maximum of 500 words. Google Docs will be used to check the word count, and titles will not be included.
Ideally, entrants will have taken inspiration from Julian of Norwich and reflect on teachings, learning, and advice.
Collaborations will not be accepted, and the work must be the author’s own. Participants retain the rights to their submissions. Entries must be written in English. Participation is open to anyone who lives in Norfolk, or has links with the county, and fits within the age criteria.
The deadline for entries is 5pm GMT on Sunday, April 30 2023. Email submissions to donna-louise.bishop@newsquest.co.uk with 'Julian of Norwich Writing Competition Entry' in the subject header, and include in the email full name, age, and address.
Any questions about the competition should also be directed to donna-louise.bishop@newsquest.co.uk with the subject header ‘Julian of Norwich Writing Competition Question’.
The competition is only open to young people up to the age of 18, who live in Norfolk, or have connections with it.
What if, I am over 18 year old?
With kindness.
V.