Graffeg Publishing Writers Brief

We are looking for authors to write reading books for pleasure for children and young adults between 3-16 years old. The main aim of this is to develop talent in publishing in Wales by identifying and helping new authors who can create content to represent the diverse communities of Wales and their history, in both languages.

The focus is on diversity, particularly on representing Black and Asian communities, ethnic minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, the Roma and Traveller communities, disabled people and the multiculturalism of Wales. 

The intention is to commission 10 original stories, to be published concurrently in Welsh and English. The 10 books will be shared between three age groups as follows: 

– 3 books for 3-7 years, 350 - 500 words. 
– 4 books for 8-11 years, 20,000 - 40,000 words.
– 3 books for 12-16 years, 40,000 - 60,000 words.

We’d like to see a combination of factual books and fiction stories, and they should be written from a Welsh perspective and be relevant to Wales, with either scenes which are set in Wales or featuring characters with a Welsh connection.

We would also warmly encourage writers and illustrators who are under-represented to come forward with their own work. 

Please submit a synopsis of your story, a sample chapter or extract and a brief biography to grace@graffeg.com by Friday 5 May 2023. 

For further details or enquiries contact Grace Samuel: grace@graffeg.com/02922404971.