Julian of Norwich anniversary writing competition 

Together with the Friends of Julian of Norwich, the Eastern Daily Press (EDP) is running a competition for children and young people aged between four and 18.

The competition is free-to-enter, and entrants are asked to submit beautifully composed prose or poetry up to a maximum of 500 words on the theme “Divine Love”.

The theme takes its name from the publication by Julian of Norwich, believed to be the first woman to write a book in English, whose Revelations of Divine Love tells the story of her experiences in May 1373 and the wonderful conclusions she drew from them.  Following the sixteen visions which Julian received, she took up residence as an anchoress at St Julian’s Church in Norwich.

The winner will receive £100 worth of book vouchers, the runner-up £50 worth of book vouchers, and any honourable mentions £30 worth of book vouchers.

There will also be a whole host of other goodies up for grabs – including prizes from Norwich’s independent bookshop Bookbugs and Dragon Tales and the National Centre for Writing – which will be announced in the EDP.

Interpreting the theme “Divine Love”, children and young people aged between four and 18 can submit one piece of work – either fiction, non-fiction, or poetry – up to a maximum of 500 words.  Google Docs will be used to check the word count, and titles will not be included.

Ideally, entrants will have taken inspiration from Julian of Norwich and reflect on teachings, learning, and advice. Collaborations will not be accepted, and the work must be the author’s own. Participants retain the rights to their submissions. Entries must be written in English. Participation is open to anyone who lives in Norfolk, or has links with the county, and fits within the age criteria.

The deadline for entries is 5pm on Sunday 30 April.  Email submissions to donna-louise.bishop@newsquest.co.uk with ‘Julian of Norwich Writing Competition Entry’ in the subject header, and include in the email full name, age, and address.

Winners will be announced on Saturday 27 May 2023 and the winning entries will be published in the EDP.

Pictured above is St Julian's church in Norwich.