Why Writers Enter Contests . . .

Sometimes writers enter contests to receive feedback on a yet-to-be-published project, and find out if they are on the right track. .  . Seeking validation from judges who routinely review manuscripts - and because most contests are set up as a "blind" submission (no names revealed), judges determine if the work stands on its own.

That's what I did with this unpublished picture book project. I love this sweet little story, but yet it has met with resistance from some because it falls into a category of books that may seem "saturated" at times. (But it has received an endorsement from a key editor in the industry, too!) Pitching your project is like trying to find that perfect match between topic and willing editor at just the right moment. I'm going to give this one all I can - and find a home for it someday!