LIBRETTO AFRICAN ANTHOLOGY PRIZE (LAAP)

LIBRETTO AFRICAN ANTHOLOGY PRIZE 2024 – Second Edition for Children’s Literature—Extended deadline.

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the second edition of the Libretto African Anthology Prize 2024 for Children’s Literature, where imagination knows no bounds and storytelling takes flight! As we embark on this literary journey, we invite writers from across the African continent to weave stories that capture the hearts and minds of young readers.

In a world where children are constantly bombarded with distractions, the power of storytelling remains unmatched. Through the magic of words, writers have the ability to transport young minds to faraway lands, introduce them to captivating characters, and instill in them the values of empathy, courage, and resilience.

The Libretto African Anthology Prize (LAAP) celebrates the richness of African culture, history, and tradition, offering a platform for diverse voices to be heard. This prize seeks to showcase the beauty of African storytelling in all its forms as Africa’s stories are as vast and varied as the continent itself.

This year, we are particularly focused on children’s literature, recognizing the importance of nurturing a love for reading from a young age. Whether it’s a whimsical write up that sparks the imagination, a thrilling adventure that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, or a heartwarming tale that teaches valuable life lessons, we believe that every story has the power to make a difference in a child’s life. Submissions in indigenous African languages are warmly welcomed, with translations provided for the judging panel. This commitment to linguistic diversity reflects our belief in the power of language to shape identity and foster cultural exchange.

SUBMISSIONS GUIDELINES:

  1. Eligibility: The Libretto African Anthology Prize is open to writers who are citizens of African country.
  2. Submission Process: Submissions are to be made at https://librettong.com/anthology-submissions/. Upon submission all entrants are expected to purchase the first edition of the anthology uploaded on the submission portal. Read the steps below:

2a. STEP TO PURCHASE THE ANTHOLOGY BEFORE YOUR SUBMISSIONS IS MADE AND ACCEPTED

Step 1: To purchase the anthology CLICK HERE, it will direct you where you can purchase,

Step 2: After purchasing the anthology, a SUCCESS notification will be displayed which confirms the successful purchase of the book. Click on the link written on the SUCCESS prompt to proceed with your entry submission.

2b. WHAT YOU WILL FIND ON THE SUBMISSIONS LINK

Step 1: EMAIL: Fill your email address on the blank space.

Step 2: STORY TITLE: Fill the title of your submission.

Step 3: COVER LETTER: Write a short synopsis of what your story is about.

Step 4: UPLOAD YOUR SUBMISSION: You are only requested to upload a Microsoft Document. No other format will be accepted expect Word Document.

Step 5: AUTHOR’S BIO: You are to fill out your full biography in the blank space.

Step 6: NATIONALITY: Include your country in the blank space.

Step 7: AUTHOR’S NAME: Fill out your full name in the blank space.

Step 8: AUTHOR’S PICTURE: You are requested to upload a portrait photograph of you in high-resolution. No other image format except JPEG or PNG are allowed.

Step 9: DID YOU PURCHASE THE LIBRETTO AFRICAN ANTHOLOGY (FIRST EDITION)? IF NO, CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE: What that means is that if you have purchased the book you are requested to click Yes and if No, you are expected to purchase before your work will be accepted.

  1. Theme: While there is no specific theme for this edition, we encourage submissions that celebrate African cultures, traditions, folklore, and contemporary life. Stories that promote curiosity, diversity, and empathy are highly encouraged.
  2. Genre: We accept entries for children’s short stories in middle-grade story and young adult fiction.
  3. Length: Stories should range from 2000 to 2500 maximum words count.
  4. Formatting: Please use standard manuscript format (Times New Roman, 14-point font, double-spaced).
  5. Judging Criteria: Entries will be judged based on literary merit, originality, creativity, suitability for the target age group, and adherence to submissions guidelines. Our panel of esteemed judges consist of prominent authors, educators, and literary professionals with expertise in Children’s literature.
  6. Copyright: Submitting for the anthology gives Us the copyright to make use of entries as deemed fit.
  7. Language: Entries must be written in English. Submissions in indigenous African languages are widely welcomed but with translations provided.
  8. Deadline: The submission deadline has now been extended to November 30th, 2024 Late submissions will not be accepted.
  9. CASH PRIZE:
    The winner of the Libretto African Anthology Prize (LAAP) for Children Literature will receive a cash Prize of ₦100,000.
  10. PUBLICATION:
    The longlist will be released in December, shortlist in January, and the Winner announced in February. The longlisted, shortlisted, and winning story will be published as part of the Libretto African Anthology for Children’s Literature.
  11. MENTORSHIP: The winner will be invited to mentor writers in our next online mentorship program.
  12. ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION:
    Entrants should subscribe to: wwww.librettong.com for regular updates.

For enquiries, contact us: info@librettong.com

We look forward to receiving your submissions and discovering the next generation of African children’s literature talent. Together, let’s continue to inspire and empower young readers across the continent and beyond. Happy writing!

Motto: Libretto African Anthology Prize – Nurturing African Voices, Empowering Great Minds.