Memoir Award A moment of truth

Your own story

In your own words

• We all have a story to tell about ourselves, the good, the bad and the how did I end up there? Celebrate a snapshot of your life, a fragment in time or rear view mirror look at what was and now is.
• We initially need 5,000 to 8,000 words plus a 300 word overview. If you’re long listed we’ll ask for a total of 15,000 words, including your original word count. Shortlisted? Then we need a total 30,000 words, again including your original entry and long listed word count.
• It’s your moment of truth.

First prize: £1,500

• You will receive a year’s mentoring from The Literary Consultancy through their Chapter & Verse scheme. You’ll also have the chance to consult with A.M. Heath, a leading London literary agency, plus get valuable advice from an editor at John Murray, part of Hachette publishers. You have the option of a discussion with the University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department. In addition, the opening chapter/s of your memoir will be published on our website. Finally, we will always champion you as part of our Bridport Prize family.

Runner up: £750

• Your full manuscript will be assessed by The Literary Consultancy with invaluable editorial feedback. You’ll be offered the option of a discussion with the University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department. Your memoir’s opening chapter/s will also be published on our website. And, you’ll always be part of the Bridport Prize family.

Highly Commended: £150 x 3 awards

• You’ll receive a 15,000 word manuscript appraisal from The Literary Consultancy, plus an invitation to an industry day with agents and publishers. You’ll also have the option of a discussion with the University of Exeter’s Creative Writing Department. Finally, you’ll always be part of the Bridport Prize family.