2025 Black Voices in Children’s Literature: Writing Contest

 Full details 

Submissions for 2025 will be open June 16 to July 22.

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About the Contest

Welcome back to the Black Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest! The contest is open to Black authors who at the time of entry are at least 18 years of age and residing anywhere in the United States.

As always, the contest’s mission is to elevate authentic, culturally relevant children’s stories written by and about Black people. Every entry is considered for publication and three cash prizes will be awarded.

About Strive Publishing

Strive Publishing’s vision is a world where Black narratives are centered, valued, and empowered for freedom, equity, and justice.

Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Strive Publishing exists to help solve two problems: the need for culturally relevant children’s books and the underrepresentation of Black authors. While giving all children the opportunity to see Black culture from different perspectives, Strive Publishing aims to create opportunities for emerging Black authors. We all have a stake in the critical work of uplifting Black voices in children’s literature, and we can make the greatest impact by working together.

About Free Spirit Publishing

Whether at home, at school, or out in the world, all kids face challenges in their lives. No matter how many choices, changes, and opportunities young people encounter, Free Spirit has had the same mission for almost 40 years: to provide children and teens—and the adults who care for and about them—with the tools they need to think for themselves, overcome challenges, and make a difference in the world.

Minneapolis-based Free Spirit Publishing, an imprint of Teacher Created Materials, is known for its unique understanding of what kids want and need to navigate life successfully. We’re not afraid to tackle tough topics such as teen depression, kids and anxiety, grief and loss, juvenile justice, and conflict resolution. Free Spirit also offers sound advice with a sense of humor on relevant issues including stress management, character building, school success, self-esteem, community involvement, youth leadership, and more. We aim to meet all kids—toddlers, teens, and everyone in between—where they are (not where we wish they were), and support them to develop their talents, build resiliency, and foster a positive outlook on life so they can reach their goals.

What to Enter

Submissions should meet these qualifications:

• Must be original children’s books for ages 0–4 (50–125 words) or for ages 4–8 (300–800 words)
• Must feature authentic, realistic Black characters and culture
• Must focus on one or more of the following topics: character development, self-esteem, identity, diversity, getting along with others, engaging with family and community, or other topics related to positive childhood development

What Not to Enter

The following types of submissions will not be considered.

• Chapter books and books aimed primarily at children older than age 8
• Essays, short stories, and poems (note: rhyme and poetic language within the narrative are eligible)
• Religious messages and dogma (note: the representation of religion as a part of life and culture is eligible)
• Fantasy themes (such as talking animals and magic)

Eligibility

Eligible writers are Black residents of the United States, 18 years of age or older, who have not previously published work for children. Employees of Free Spirit Publishing, Teacher Created Materials, and Strive Publishing are not eligible. Previous contest winners are not eligible.

Guidelines

Only one entry per person. All entries must be:

• Your original work
• Unpublished (including traditionally or via self-publishing)
• Not under contract with any other publisher at the time of entry

Please include the following items in your entry:

• Book text along with written illustration ideas if you have them (no need to include actual art)
• A letter briefly describing your book, specifying the intended audience (including age range), and telling why you decided to write it
• Your brief biography and current email address

No manuscripts will be returned. Entries that do not conform to contest rules will be disqualified.

Questions about the guidelines? Email contest@freespirit.com.

Awards & Cash Prizes

First Place: $1,000 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, swag from Free Spirit, and a meeting with Mary Taris, founder of Strive, and an editor from Free Spirit to discuss the winner’s project. The winning submission will be seriously considered for publication by Free Spirit, cobranded with Strive; however, publication is not guaranteed.

Second Place: $500 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, and swag from Free Spirit

Third Place: $250 cash prize, a T-shirt from Strive, and swag from Free Spirit

Timing

The Contest begins at 7:00:01 a.m. (CDT) on June 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. (CDT) on July 21, 2025 (“Entry Period”). Mailed entries must be postmarked, and emailed entries must be received, by 11:59:59 p.m. CDT on July 21, 2025.

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To Submit an Entry Online

1. Title the manuscript and include your name on the first page.
2. Upload your entry on Submittable: