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Fiction | Language and Arts | Writing and Journalism

PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction

  • Last Updated: May 4, 2025

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Contact Info

  • Phone: Currently Unavailable
  • Contact: info@pen.org
  • Website
  • PEN America, Bellwether Foundation
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About the competition

A biennial prize established by Barbara Kingsolver, recognizing unpublished novels that engage with social justice themes. The winner receives $25,000 and publication by Algonquin Books.

Comp Info

  • Estimated Ann. Participants: 100
  • Cost: $25 entry fee
  • Estimated Time Commitment: Average
  • Participant Format: Individual
  • Event Format: Online Asynchronous
  • Competition Format: Original Submission
  • Reach: National
  • Event Size: Very Small

Participation Information

Writers submit previously unpublished manuscripts, judged blindly by a panel of distinguished authors and editors. The winner receives a cash prize and publishing contract.
Open to adult writers
$25,000 for winners; publication opportunities and recognition for socially impactful fiction writing
Writers submit previously unpublished manuscripts, judged blindly by a panel of distinguished authors and editors. The winner receives a cash prize and publishing contract.
1. Submit a manuscript. 2. Judges review submissions blindly. 3. The winner is awarded $25,000 and a publishing contract.
Manuscript
Based on literary merit, creativity, and the work’s engagement with social justice themes.

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