We know that there are a number of budding writers who read Tamebay, many of whom participate in NaNoWriMo each year. Tamebay cofounder Sue was a big fan.
However there’s only 10 days left in November so if you’re falling behind in NaNoWriMo don’t despair, enter Amazon’s Christmas writing competition instead, they only need 350-700 words.
Amazon are searching for a modern day version of Twas The Night Before Christmas, as a gift to families for bedtime reading this Christmas Eve. All UK residents are eligible to apply and you just need to write a story that is family-friendly and Christmas themed. The word limit is between 350-700 words and the competition closes on Sunday the 27th of November.
The winning author will have their story illustrated by professional illustrator Aless Bayliss and it could be read by millions on Christmas Eve. The winner will also get a £2,000 Amazon gift card, a top of the range Fire tablet and future royalties from Kindle Direct Publishing after the promotion period.
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Story write up!
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, and all through the night,
We parents were wrapping with all of our might.
The stockings were stuffed but the presents were bare.
“I’ll be more organized next year… I swear!”
We prayed that the children would stay in their beds,
Snuggled in tight with the spreads on their heads.
While Daddy with his screwdriver and I with my tape,
Settled in to the task to make Christmas take shape.
When all of a sudden the dog began barking.
The reflection of bows on the ceiling were sparkling!
I sprang from the couch and led him away —
Into his crate to await Christmas Day.
At last we were ready to load up the tree.
Poor Daddy endured sharp instructions from me.
First this one! Now that one! Put this one on top.
Be CAREFUL! It’s fragile! Be sure it won’t drop.
And then we collapsed, exhausted and frayed.
“Oh please let the kids sleep ‘til eight,” we both prayed.
One blink of an eye and we heard the kids cheer,
“Come look at the tree, ‘cause Santa’s been here!”
We groaned in our beds, our eyes red and puffy.
The kids both looked glowing, while we looked quite scruffy.
I brewed us some coffee and scorching hot tea,
Then readied myself for the festivity.
One blink of an eye and the presents were done.
The kids were quite eager to play and have fun.
But as they were cleaning up ribbon and wrapping,
I lay my head down and soon began napping.
As I slipped into dreams, I heard a soft voice
Remind me to savor the day and rejoice.