The Novelry launch new scholarship programme for underrepresented writers

 The Novelry is delighted to announce that applications are now open for The Octopus Scheme, our initiative to nurture writing talent from under-represented or disadvantaged backgrounds. This includes, but is not limited to, writers from a low-income background, primary carers, ex-offenders, writers with a disability, writers of colour and writers from the LGBTQIA+ community.

The chosen applicants will be offered a  place on The Novelry’s Ninety Day Novel Course, jointly sponsored by The Novelry and one of eight bestselling guest authors, including Sophie Kinsella and Rachel Joyce (full details below). The Ninety Day Novel Course is aimed at first-time writers, or writers who are on their first draft. The course has daily lessons, providing aspiring authors with the tools and guidance to put pen to paper (or hand to keyboard!) and turn their story idea into a reality. 

One-to-one mentoring with one of The Novelry’s author tutors is included in the course. There are eight tutors to choose from: Louise Dean, The Novelry founder and prize-winning author, Emylia Hall, Polly Ho-Yen, Jack Jordan, Katie Khan, Kate Riordan, Mahsuda Snaith, and Tasha Suri. Alongside personal author coaching, and the daily lessons, one year’s membership to The Novelry will be included, providing applicants with all they need to get to the end of their novel.

To apply for The Octopus Scheme please email The Novelry at hello@thenovelry.com with the subject heading 'The Octopus Scheme'. All applications are considered in total confidence by The Novelry. They do not require proof of eligibility but would be grateful if applicants could explain in their own words about their circumstances. Applicants should include a 500-word sample of their writing and include in their covering email your answers to the following questions:

About my circumstances and why I would like to be considered for The Octopus Scheme

What I hope to gain from the Ninety Day Novel Course 

A tip from The Novelry: if you're feeling modest about your work, and nervous about applying – do it! Often it's the case that those least certain about their writing are very good writers indeed!

For more information please visit https://www.thenovelry.com/scholarships. The deadline for applications is 31st May 2022 midnight UTC. For more information on the course, please see https://www.thenovelry.com/the-ninety-day-novel-course.