Sleeping Bear Press

Offered annually to children’s picture book manuscripts written by new authors from historically marginalized groups with the intention of recognizing and amplifying new and diverse voices with underrepresented perspectives.

The Own Voices, Own Stories Award contest is open to new authors who identify as BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+.

Only projects and authors who have not had a previously traditionally published children’s book will be considered.

Own Voices, Own Stories Award

Submitted children’s stories should speak to the authentic experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities with the purpose of engaging readers in narratives that reflect underrepresented voices and communities. Consistent with our dedication to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, those stories should both inspire and empower readers.

Submissions should be for ages four through ten and may be fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Text must come in at under 1,300 words (not including backmatter or ancillary material).

Own Voices, Own Stories Award

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