The Tampa Bay Times Newspaper in Education Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing Contest seeks to nurture and recognize the creativity and talent of young writers in the Tampa Bay area. It was established in 2014 to encourage aspiring authors to explore the genres of science fiction and fantasy and to experiment with the short story format.
The 2021-2022 theme is “Fantastic Florida.”
Entries will be accepted Nov. 15, 2021 – April 26, 2022 at tampabay.com/nie/storycontest.
The contest is open to all students over the age of 13 in grades 9-12 in public, private and home schools in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties. Stories must be previously unpublished and unsold. There is no fee to enter, and no limit to the number of stories a student may submit.
The Grand Prize winner will receive:
• $200 grand prize
• Invitation to read as a presenting author at the 2022 Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
• Grand prize plaque
• Winning story published on the contest website
Runners-up will receive:
• $25 prize
• Award certificate presented at the 2022 Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
Visit tampabay.com/nie/storycontest for more information, complete official rules and to enter.
