We are delighted that the Great Northern Read Award 2027 is now open to entries until 11th January 2027.
The award was devised by Johnson & Alcock with New Writing North as part of their programme of Northern Writers’ Awards to offer a fresh and exciting opportunity for emerging writers of gripping, page-turning fiction across all genres, who are looking to take the next step towards publication.
The award is open to unagented and unpublished writers living in the North of England. We are interested in submissions across the full spectrum of genres, including but not limited to: crime, mystery, thriller, historical, romance, fantasy, sci-fi and book club fiction, with an emphasis on immersive storytelling and compelling writing.
There will be one winning writer, who will receive:
£2500 prize money.
A structured programme of mentoring sessions with representatives from Johnson & Alcock literary agency, who will provide the successful candidate with tailored guidance on manuscript development and career progression. During this time you will commit to a period of exclusive development with Johnson & Alcock.
Access to New Writing North’s programme of support for writers, which includes membership of the Society of Authors, networking events, one-to-one support from the talent development team, and advisory sessions from publishing professionals.
The award will be assessed by an expert panel of industry judges, which will be announced in November. For more details on eligibility and how to enter, visit the New Writing North website here.
The inaugural winner of the Great Northern Read Award, announced in 2026, was Sarah Hunt (pictured above, right, with Johnson & Alcock’s Anna Power) for her novel The Fox at the Door.