We're thrilled to announce that The Book Edit Writers' Prize 2026 is now open for entries.
The prize exists to help talented unpublished novelists, from backgrounds and communities currently underrepresented in UK publishing, get their work in front of an audience of literary agents.
Eight winning writers will be selected to read their work at our online showcase in November, hosted for invited industry guests from across our network. Afterwards, an anthology of their readings will be published on our website and sent to all the top UK literary agents.
All shortlisted writers (not just our eight winners) will have the chance to have their entries recorded and spotlit on our website, with an accompanying email campaign and social media boost to help get their work seen by a wider audience.
We're delighted to welcome award-winning author Emily Midorikawa as this year's judge. Her brilliant debut novel, A Tiny Speck of Black and Then Nothing, was published by Manilla Press this year. We'll be sharing more about Emily and her writing journey in the coming weeks.
Key prize details:
Free to enter
Submit the first 1,000 words of your novel, a synopsis (500 words max) and a brief note on your writing experience
Deadline: 5pm, 16 October 2026
We can't wait to read your work.