Write Like Jane contest

Ages 10-adult. Do you have a flair for wit, romance, and Regency charm? Enter our Write Like Jane contest and showcase your storytelling skills in the spirit of one of literature's most beloved authors.

Contest divisions:

Adult - Open to participants ages 18 or older
Youth - Open to participants ages 10-17

Submission guidelines:

• Theme:  Entries should capture the style, themes, or settings inspired by Jane Austen's works. This may include Regency-era fiction, modern adaptations, or stories inspired by her novels and characters.
• Word limit:  maximum of 7500 words
• Original work: Submissions must be original, unpublished fiction.
• Deadline: All entries must be submitted by Friday, August 8, 2025.

Judging criteria:

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Austen-esque style & wit (Does the story capture the charm, irony, and social critique found in Jane Austen's works?)
• Character development (Engaging protagonists, witty dialogue, and compelling relationships)
• Creativity & originality (A fresh take on Austen-inspired storytelling)
• Overall writing quality (Grammar, clarity, and structure)

Prizes:

Winners in each division will receive:

• First place: $100 Writer's Block gift card, and publication on our website
• Second place: $50 Writer's Block gift card, and publication on our website
• Third place: $25 Writer's Block gift card, and publication on our website

How to submit:

• Submit entry using [LINK AVAILABLE MAY 1]
• Entries must be in .doc, docx, or PDF format

Additional rules:

• One entry per person
• Any submissions that exceed the word count or do not meet formatting requirements may be disqualified.
• Plagiarized or AI-generated content will not be accepted.
• The contest is open to writers who reside in Central Florida.
• Offensive and likely to expose an individual or a group of individuals to hatred or contempt on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, or mental or physical disability.
• Pornography, vulgarity, obscenity, or sexually explicit content. Erotic overtones and sexual innuendo are permitted, the extent of which is to be determined by the judges.

For further inquiries, contact us at lblue@winterparklibrary.org

Happy writing, and may your story be as delightful as an Austen novel!