Contest Rules:

 

This contest is only open to teenagers, so if you are between the ages of 13 and 19 are welcome to enter. If not, please pass this link to any teen writers or artists that you know.

 

This contest is only open from July 15th to Semptember 15th, 2026. Short story entries received outside of these dates will not be considered.

 

Short Stories Rules:

 

1. Stories must contain a science fiction or fantasy element.

 

2. Stories must not contain excessive profanity, sex, or violence. Keep it rated PG-13 at most. Also, this is a Science Fiction and Fantasy contest. Please do not submit straight horror.

 

3. Stories will be judged on several factors: plot, character, setting, originality, narrative style, use of language, and, just as importantly, being a good fit for my website. This year, I have added to the rubric strong beginning, middle, and ending. Last time I received several wonderful first chapters to novels, but they were not complete short stories. Also, be aware poor spelling and grammar will be deducted from your overall score and reduce your chances of winning. I beg you to have someone proof read your story before you send it!  

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Any use of generative AI will disqualify your submission!

 

4. Authors must be willing to work with me as an editor to ensure their stories are the best they can be before publication. This will mean receiving a marked-up manuscript, having a phone consult to discuss my suggestions, and submitting a revised version. It is important to me to provide young writers with a positive experience receiving feedback on their work from a professional as an introduction to the writing industry.  

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The winners of the short story contest will be awarded $100 (1st place), $70 (2nd place), or $40 (3rd place) and will have their stories displayed on the RIPartridge website for two years.

 

All results are final. It is possible that stories you feel are not as good as yours will win. Creative writing is a very subjective thing. Please read some of my stories before entering to get an idea of what I am looking for for my website.

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