21st Annual Short Story Contest Honors Aldrich And Exceptional Writing

To honor Nebraska author Bess Streeter Aldrich and recognize outstanding writing, the Bess Streeter Aldrich Foundation announces its 2023 Short Story Contest, which is celebrating its 21st year of competition.Authors are encouraged to generate a fictional short story that is written in the wholesome spirit displayed by Bess Streeter Aldrich in her works while incorporating a theme that focuses on Nebraska’s economy, history, cultural diversity, and/or geography (past, present, and/or future). Story length should be 1,000-2,000 words (there is no minimum word requirement for the Intermediate category).At one time, Aldrich was one of the mostly widely read authors from Nebraska. She won two magazine fiction-writing contests. In 1911, she entered a contest with the Ladies' Home Journal and won $175 for her story, “The Little House Next Door.”When her husband died in 1925, Aldrich took up writing full time as a means of supporting her family.Her output included over 160 short stories and articles, nine novels and one novella. Among filmed adaptations of her work are “The Woman Who Was Forgotten” (1931) and “Cheers for Miss Bishop” (1941).A list of books by the author which entrants can read to become familiar with Mrs. Aldrich’s work is available on the Foundation’s website, www.bessstreeteraldrich.org. Exceptional examples include Mrs. Aldrich’s best-selling novel A Lantern in Her Hand, The Lieutenant’s Lady (the featured book in 2023), or a collection of short stories. No essays, please.Prizes will be awarded at an annual event held the second Sunday in June. Adults are provided cash prizes of 1st place, $100; 2nd place, $50; 3rd place, $25. High School (grades 9-12), Middle School (grades 6-8), and Intermediate School (grades 3-5) awards include 1st place, $50; 2nd place, $25; and 3rd place, $15. Any individual who submits a short story may participate in a free tour during 2023. Aldrich House guides will be able to confirm participation upon arrival at the Aldrich House. Family members of the Bess Streeter Aldrich Foundation board members are not eligible.The due date for submissions is April 15, 2023. A submission link and a complete list of rules can be found at www.bessstreeteraldrich.org. Questions about the contest or an alternative paper submission can be directed to Kurk Shrader, Executive Director (email aldrichfoundation@gmail.com or call 402-994-3855). Publicity for this event is funded in part by Cass County Tourism, visitcasscounty.com.

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