The mentoring scheme is free of charge for authors who are currently unagented and not yet published (in the traditional sense) and I am looking for mentees to work with over a 5-month period, one starting in March 2024 and one starting in August 2024.
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 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, home-educating and caring responsibilities.
WHO AM I LOOKING FOR?
This year, I am looking for ONE author for March-July, and ONE author for August-December. Ideally, I’m looking for someone who writes BOTH picture books and chapter books but will take one or the other if the fit is right!
I try to work with mentees who I think would particularly benefit from my help and might find it harder to pursue writing or break into the publishing industry. This year I’m looking for someone who consider themselves to meet at least one of the following:
- Lives with challenging long-term health conditions
- Age 50+
HOW DO I APPLY?
Submissions are open from 14th November until 30th November 2023. Please do not send submissions outside of this window. To apply, please contact me here on my Contact Page with:
- A short cover letter explaining the kind of books you like to write, what you’d like to get out of the mentoring, how you meet the criteria, and any relevant writing experience
- Please include a sample of your work – please read carefully. Send EITHER a completed picture book text (600 words or less) OR an opening chapter of a book for 5-9 year olds (maximum 1000 words).
*** NB: PLEASE DO NOT ENTER ANYTHING WHICH IS SUBMITTED FOR THE WRITING MAGAZINE CHILDREN’S BOOK PRIZE ***
If you experience technical difficulties sending material, please send just a short message from the Contact Page and I’ll get back to you.
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: 30th November 2023
Thank you for your interest!