The Jericho Prize for Children’s Writing has launched its 2025 competition, offering a golden opportunity for unpublished and self-published Black British writers to break into the publishing world, per voice-online.co.uk. Open for submissions from March 31 to April 30, this year’s contest, in partnership with Hachette Children’s Group, aims to amplify diverse voices in children’s literature with a focus on stories featuring Black main characters.
Founded in 2021 by Fabia Turner, the Jericho Prize is dedicated to ensuring Black British perspectives reach young readers.
“There’s a wealth of untapped talent in the Black British writing community,” Turner said. “We’re thrilled to partner with Hachette and introduce a baby book award for ages 1–3, alongside our picture book category for ages 3–7.”
Winners in each category will receive a £1,250 cash prize, a 12-month Society of Authors membership and a copy of the Children’s Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook 2025. Four runners-up per category will also gain industry recognition, book bundles from Hachette and the Yearbook. The competition builds on a successful 2024 collaboration with Hachette, which included extensive writer resources.
Hannah Ray, Hachette’s Group Picture Book and Preschool Publisher, emphasised the shared mission: “We’re committed to nurturing emerging Black British talent and ensuring children see themselves in books from the youngest age.”
Since its inception, the Jericho Prize has supported over 300 writers with free feedback, mentorships and workshops, with several securing agents and publishing deals.
Backed by Inclusive Books for Children, the Society of Authors, and others, the prize continues to champion inclusivity. Aspiring writers can find entry details at jerichoprize.com.
- Featured image: Fabia Turner/voice-online.co.uk
