Asian Voices in Children’s Literature Writing Contest

 Full Details

ontest will be open May 4 to May 31, 2026.

Sign up here to get an email when submissions open.

About the Contest

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

The contest’s mission is to elevate authentic, culturally relevant children’s stories written by and about people of Asian heritage. Every entry is considered for publication and three cash prizes will be awarded. .

About Sambasivan & Parikh

Sambasivan & Parikh is a women-owned small press amplifying diasporic perspectives in children’s literature. We are proud to publish books that highlight the experiences of children growing up across geographies and between cultures. Our books and learning resources offer culturally rooted stories and perspectives, placing tools for social change in the hands of educators, families, and community advocates. Sambasivan & Parikh is based in New York’s Capital Region.

Our imprints:

Yali Books opens windows to South Asia, inviting readers to explore its many cultures and traditions through stories that emphasize equality, equity, and justice. Yali Books has been recognized by the American Library Association, National Council for the Social Studies, South Asia National Outreach Consortium and the Gerontological Society of America.

Modern Marigold Books amplifies the experiences of early-generation families to promote social and emotional growth rooted in identity. Modern Marigold Books has received multiple honors from IBPA and NYC Big Book Award.

First Person Press creates a bold space for diasporic voices in nonfiction writing by exploring topics ranging from untold histories to present-day social justice movements. First Person Press is aimed at middle-grade through university-level students, and speaks to present and future generations of socially conscious learners.

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 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 (300–1,000 words)
• Must feature authentic, realistic characters of Asian heritage
• Must focus on one or more of the following topics: resilience, character development, self-esteem, identity, getting along with others, engaging with family and community, or other topics related to positive childhood development
• Must be connected in some way to the writer’s personal experience

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 animal protagonists or magic)

Judging Criteria

• Cultural relevance and authentic voice
• Presentation (follows submission guidelines, neatness, legibility)
• Suitability (fits publishing category; targeted age group and length are appropriate for children’s manuscripts)
• Content (tightness, clarity, structure, strength of lead/beginning, transitions, impact, satisfactory close)
• Alignment with the spirit of the Contest
• For nonfiction: logical flow, accuracy of information, sound advice

Eligibility

Eligible writers are of Asian heritage, residents of the United States, 18 years of age or older, who have not previously published work for children (self-published authors are eligible). Employees of Free Spirit Publishing, Teacher Created Materials, and Sambasivan & Parikh are not eligible. Previous contest winners are not eligible. 

Entry 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 (please do not include actual art)
• A letter briefly describing your book, specifying the intended audience (including age range), and telling us what inspired you to write it and/or your personal connection to the story.
• 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.

To Submit an Entry Online

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