The winner of this prize will receive a publishing deal and a $10,000 advance against royalties.
According to the press release:
‘In search of the next great Australian story, HarperCollins Children's Books Australia is delighted to announce the inaugural Matilda Children's Literature Prize. The prize seeks to discover and share exciting new stories from this country's best storytellers, whether emerging or established.’
We’re excited too!
Even famous children’s author Emily Rodda weighed in (according to the press release):
‘I was delighted to hear about the Matilda Prize. A new prize for Australian children's writing is always good news, but the Matilda is particularly welcome to me because it will be given to an unpublished manuscript, with a publishing contract and a good, non-returnable advance as the prize.
‘Our field needs variety and continual refreshment, just as children do, but the road to publication can be a frustrating and depressing maze for writers who aren't yet established. The Matilda Prize could lead to the discovery and launch of many exciting new talents as the years go by.'
Entries are now open.
Closing date is 26 January 2020. The shortlist will be announced in April 2020, with the winner announced in May.
Polish your manuscript, then head to the HarperCollins website to submit your entry.
