Simon & Schuster UK has unveiled an unprecedented opportunity for emerging talent with the launch of its “New Chapter” award, specifically designed for unpublished and un-agented fiction authors of colour, according to thebookseller.com. The landmark initiative offers winners a lucrative two-book publishing contract backed by a six-figure advance, representing one of the industry’s most substantial commitments to diversifying commercial fiction.
The award comes as part of the publisher’s ongoing efforts to address the significant underrepresentation of authors of color in mainstream publishing. Selection will be handled by Simon & Schuster UK’s Adult Fiction editorial team alongside literary agent Silé Edwards from Andrew Nurnberg Associates and Nancy Adimora, founder of OtherStories.
“I have spent a lot of time dreaming up ways to ensure all writers see being published as a realistic and achievable prospect,” said Edwards, who initially proposed the idea. “I am so excited to see the entries. I already know we will have excellent stories to choose from.”
The competition will remain open for three months, requiring authors to submit three chapters and a synopsis of their novel. Longlisted candidates will gain valuable face time with the publisher’s team, including Adult Fiction Editorial Director Molly Crawford.
Sabah Khan, Publicity Director at Simon & Schuster UK, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative: “We are committed to ensuring that our publishing reflects the society we live in. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will allow us to truly invest in an author of color and publish them with immense confidence.”
While Simon & Schuster continues seeking works from all authors, the publisher emphasised that this competition specifically targets writers of colour who remain particularly underrepresented in commercial fiction.
Adimora called the award “exactly the kind of bold, concrete commitment needed to reshape commercial fiction,” adding she looks forward to discovering “talented writers and extraordinary stories that resonate with readers everywhere.”
Submissions can be made via newchapter@simonandschuster.co.uk. Entrants must qualify as coming from a minority ethnic background, and the winner must enter into a contract with Simon & Schuster UK to receive the prize.
•Featured image: Sabah Khan/thebookseller.com
