​Entry Rules

​

    •    Theme: Titles.

    •    Word count: Maximum 1,500 words.

    •    Genre: Any, except poetry or brutality/graphic/violent content.

    •    Eligibility: Open to writers aged 16 and over.

    •    Limit: One entry per person.

    •    Originality: Entries must be original, unpublished, and not submitted to any other competition.

    •    Story requirement: Entries must be based on the title of one of Val Wood’s books, and the story must clearly reflect the chosen title.

    •    AI-generated work: AI-generated work will not be accepted.

    •    Edits: No edits can be made after submission.

​

​

Submission Details 

​

    •    Deadline for entries: 5:00pm (BST), 31 August 2026.

    •    Submit your entry to: thevalwoodprize@gmail.com

    •    Email subject line: Val Wood Prize: Titles

    •    File format: Word or Pages document.

    •    Include with your entry: Your name, address, phone number, and email address.

​

Prizes 

​

    •    First Prize: £100 and a signed copy of Val Wood’s upcoming novel.

    •    Two Runners-up: Each will receive a signed copy of Val Wood’s novel.

    •    Publication: The winning entry will be published on www.valwood.co.uk and promoted via Val Wood’s social media channels.

​We are delighted to announce the Val Wood Prize 2026, celebrating original short fiction inspired by the titles of Val Wood’s books. This year’s theme is Titles and we invite writers to create unique stories that are shaped by, and reflect, the title they choose.

​

A title is often the first doorway into a story. It can suggest mood, setting, character, conflict, or mystery. A strong title can stay with a reader long after the final page, and for this competition we want entries that show how powerfully a title can inspire a story of its own.

Important Notes

    •    Entrants may win only one prize.

    •    Copyright remains with the author, but the organisers reserve the right to publish winning entries online or in print for up to one year.

    •    Previous winners may enter again with a new piece.

    •    Winners will be announced on Friday 27 November 2026.

​

Val Wood Book Titles

For the full list of Val Wood titles click here 

​

Each story should be a unique interpretation of the selected title, not a retelling of the book itself. We encourage entrants to think about what the title suggests, and to let that inspire an original and compelling story. Good luck.