Deadline: January 1st, 2021
Prizes: Grand Prize: $100 USD, First runner up: $50, second runner up: $25
Theme: Inclusion and representation for under-represented characters.

The Non-Binary Stars anthology is about all kinds of inclusion and representation for under-represented characters. We are looking for excellent speculative fiction stories containing a character or characters that are representational of oppressed/under-represented groups, whether that be due to issues of gender, orientation, mental/physical health, body size, skin color, etc., in which the characters are just at home in the stories and they are accepted by those around them, and the storytelling itself is the focus. We want people to feel like there are characters out there that represent them and feel “normal”. Note: this does not mean the story cannot mention the adversity such figures might face.

Note: In order to have as broad an audience as possible, keep in mind that we cannot consider erotica or sex scenes unless they are only hinted at. Sorry for the damper this may put on some entries.

HOW TO ENTER

Submit your story to [email protected] with the words “Non-Binary Stars contest submission” or similar in the subject line. There is no entry fee.

RULES

Deadline is January 1st, 2021 and winners will be announced by February 1st, 2021 or as soon as possible after that. We will hang onto your story until the contest is finished, so please keep that in mind.
LENGTH: 3,000-7,000 words
SPECIFICS:

• One entry per contestant.
• Word count limits are absolute. No exceptions.
• Entries must be written in English.
• Entries must be new pieces, no reprints.
• Entries must be exclusive to this contest for its duration.
• No fan-fiction will be accepted.
• Include a short bio and your paypal payment address so we can distribute prizes promptly.

JUDGING

Each entry will be blind judged on a point system encompassing four factors: Creativity, Technique, Use of Theme and “The Je Ne Sais Quois Factor.” The official judging period will be after the contest deadline and prizes will be awarded following that. (Click here to learn more about the judges.)

PRIZES

Grand prize: $100 USD and publication in the Non-Binary Stars anthology, as well as a free digital copy of the anthology.

First Runner Up: $50 USD and publication in the Non-Binary Stars anthology, as well as a free digital copy of the anthology.

Second Runner Up: $25 USD and publication in the Non-Binary Stars anthology, as well as a free digital copy of the anthology.

Honorable mentions: Publication in the Non-Binary Stars anthology, as well as a free digital copy of the anthology.

 

Regarding copyright, as with our other anthologies, we request the non-exclusive right to publish your story in the anthology to which it was accepted. We have copyright of the anthology, and once the contest is finished, you retain the rights to your individual story to do with as you wish. Please let us know if you have any questions.

Via: Jay Henge.