It’s been wonderful working with my four mentees in 2021. Their dedication, enthusiasm and talent has made being a mentor a fantastic experience.
The mentoring scheme is free of charge for authors who are currently unagented and unpublished (in the traditional sense) and I am looking for mentees to work with over a 6-month period, one running in January 2022 and one running in July 2022.
WHAT DO I DO?
Mentoring is a tailor-made process, so it is different for every person. It may involve setting targets and goals, discussing issues or stumbling blocks, providing critiques or feedback on stories, providing support, advice and encouragement… It is whatever you need it to be.
I will give you as much time as I can but please bear in mind that I offer this mentoring alongside my own writing career and home-schooling five children.
WHO AM I LOOKING FOR?
I am looking for TWO picture book authors (one for January, one for July) and TWO chapter book authors (one for January, one for July). You can apply for both categories if you wish.
Although I wish I could take on everyone, I’m trying to focus on writers who might particularly benefit from the help I could offer. Therefore, I’m looking to work with people who consider themselves to meet at least one of these:
- Been writing for 10 years
- Have a long-term illness or disability of any kind which impacts on life
- A carer (full-time or part-time, for children or adults)
- Neurodiverse
HOW DO I APPLY?
Please contact me here: Amy Sparkes | Contact with:
- A short cover letter explaining the kind of books you like to write, what you’re hoping to get out of the mentoring, how you meet the criteria and any relevant writing experience
- The first 500 words of either a completed story or a work in progress (please specify picture book or chapter book). Please do NOT send the whole text.
*** NB: PLEASE DO NOT ENTER ANYTHING WHICH IS SUBMITTED FOR THE WRITING MAGAZINE PICTURE BOOK PRIZE OR CHAPTER BOOK PRIZE ***
The selection process will involve connecting with the work and the writer. It’s always a very tricky decision so please don’t take it personally if you’re not selected this time.
Any queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
CLOSING DATE: SUNDAY 21ST NOVEMBER 2021 23:59 GMT
Thank you for your interest!