Entries should be previously unpublished, humorous nonfiction of 1,000 words or less about sisters, or pieces that expand on the theme such as close friends who are like sisters. Judges will consider pieces written in personal blogs or social media posts, so long as the material was not published in traditional print or digital publications.
The contest is open to writers 18 years and older. The entry fee is $25. Online submissions will be accepted June 15-Aug. 1. Entries will be blind-judged by a panel of established writers and humorists, with winners announced Oct. 19. Up to 20 winning writers will be awarded $300 cash prizes each.
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“In the spirit of Erma Bombeck, the tone can be humorous, absurd, even offbeat. We encourage essays from a diversity of authors of all experience levels — from new writers and bloggers to published book authors — that are funny in a smart, not schmaltzy way. Think of this as a humorous spin on The New York Times’ popular ‘Modern Love’ section and share your most amusing story,” said Teri Rizvi, founder and director of the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. “We want you to touch our funny bones and our hearts.”
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Nickie’s Prize is named after an aspiring humor writer and beloved sister who died eight weeks after being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018. The workshop is partnering with Nickie’s sister, Marcia Stewart, a West Coast writer and editor, on the competition. The winning essays will be published online and included in a proposed anthology.
For more information about Nickie's Prize and instructions on how to enter the competition, visit here.
The Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop honors the legacy of celebrated humorist Erma Bombeck and is the only workshop in the country devoted to humor and human interest writing. Founded in 2000 at Bombeck’s alma mater, the biennial, popular event draws writers from around the nation.
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