Exceptional First Pages Competition - Guest Editor Variant
In the world of middle-grade and young-adult fiction, two notable figures stand out - Mindy Alyse Weiss and Marissa Graff.
Mindy Alyse Weiss, a founding member and Administrator on the From the Mixed-Up Files... of Middle-Grade Authors blog, specialises in writing middle-grade novels and picture books. Her work is known for its humour, heart, and hope. Weiss is also a volunteer for the SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) but does not appear to offer freelance editing or reading services for specific agencies or individuals.
On the other hand, Marissa Graff, a freelance editor and reader for Sarah Davies at Greenhouse Literary Agency, works with a broader range of age groups, including adult fiction. She is also the Resident Writing Coach at Writers Helping Writers, where she shares valuable insights and tips for writers.
The Phenomenal First Pages contest, held monthly on Writers Helping Writers, offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring writers. To enter, simply visit the contest page, leave your contact information on the graphic provided, and subscribe to blog notifications in the sidebar. By doing so, you'll be notified about the contest each month.
If chosen as a winner, you'll be required to submit your first five pages in a specific format: 1-inch margins, double-spaced, and 12pt Times New Roman font.
It's essential to note that the current contest is closed, but a new one will start soon. The exact date isn't specified, but given the monthly nature of the event, the next cycle will follow shortly after the July 2025 edition.
In addition to the Phenomenal First Pages contest, Mindy Alyse Weiss hosts various events, such as the PBParty chats, New Draft Challenge & Critique Train, and annual contests. Marissa Graff, on the other hand, offers developmental editing, author coaching, and more through her own entity, Angelella Editorial.
So, if you're a writer looking for a chance to improve your craft and receive professional feedback, the Phenomenal First Pages contest is an opportunity you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for the next contest announcement by subscribing to blog notifications on Writers Helping Writers. Good luck!
- Marissa Graff, the Resident Writing Coach at Writers Helping Writers, provides useful advice and tips for writers hoping to develop their skills in fiction writing.
- Mindy Alyse Weiss, a writer specializing in middle-grade novels and picture books, often hosts events such as the PBParty chats and annual contests in the writing community.
- For aspiring writers seeking help and wanting to improve their craft, joining the Phenomenal First Pages contest held by Writers Helping Writers could be a valuable step towards their lifestyle goals.
- Aside from her work with the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Mindy Alyse Weiss does not appear to offer freelance editing or reading services, unlike Marissa Graff who runs Angelella Editorial, offering developmental editing, author coaching, and more in the home-and-garden sector of writing.
