It’s no easy task running a competition like this one. The greater part of the work is unseen by all except the editors, and what you guys get to see is the polished result. I’ve been preparing the ground since March, and couldn’t be happier with how it has all come together for a second year. As much work as we put in behind the scenes, the competition would be nothing at all without the work of the writers who submitted to it, and we are grateful to each and every one of you for entering, and for giving us the gift of your work. We valued every story, and you have earned our lifelong respect for your commitment to your craft. To us, you are all winners, and I really mean that!
So, we are down to the finals! The six stories below are the ones we loved the most, and that spoke to us in a memorable way. By tomorrow morning, they will be in Donal Ryan’s inbox. I’m relieved that he will be picking the winners, and not me. It will not be an easy decision.
One last thing before I announce the list:
Laura and I want to express our sincerest gratitude to Kerry Byrne, our Assistant Editor, and to Emily Rinkema, our Peer Reader, for all the work they put into making this competition a success. We trusted their judgement and opinions, which largely reflected our own, and honestly, we couldn’t have done it without them!
Thanks, guys!
Okay, enough from me! Here’s the list of our Finalists!
THE FINALISTS
45 Providence Square
Biker Jesus
Gone are the Days
Lamingtons in Nine Pieces, Scattered
Song of a Black Swan
The Shoe Factory
Congratulations to all, and we wish you the very best of luck in the final judging!
Congratulations to all that got to the final 🙌🙌🙌
Huge congratulations to everyone.