THE RIDER HAGGARD SOCIETY

ANNUAL SHORT STORY COMPETITION 2009

Rider Haggard became famous for his adventure stories, often set in remote parts of the world and in historical settings. Often these included the themes of reincarnation, friendship in adversity and a very modern attitude to other races.

THEME: Entrants are invited to write a short story based on one element of Rider Haggard's story-telling skills. For those not conversant with his style, it can be best described in brief as mainly in the oral tradition, as if he was seated at a camp-fire telling the story to friends.

REQUIREMENTS
" You are not asked to write like Haggard but you are asked to meet the following two criteria:
a) a story that reads as if it is being narrated to a group of friends
b) one element which fits: Have we met in another life? OR Even today the jungle can reveal hidden ruins.
" The story should be no more than the equivalent of 6 sides of single-spaced A4 in size 12 (a maximum of 4000 words.)
" A hard copy version is required. Please do NOT put your name on the manuscript as it will be submitted without name for assessment but do initial the back of the pages. If you would like it returned to you with the results please enclose an appropriate SAE.
" Entry fee of £10 per entry. Payable to Roger Allen.
" Send all entries to Roger Allen, 27 Deneholm, Whitley Bay, NE25 9AU. All enquiries via rb27allen@blueyonder.co.uk. Please indicate where you first read about the competition.

DEADLINE: 30th March 2009

JUDGING: Following short-listing by the editor the editor and two members of the society will judge independently. The panel's decision will be final.

PRIZE: Copies of the winning (and possibly other) entrants will be circulated in the Rider Haggard Society Journal which has members world-wide and made available to all members.
: A first prize of £200 and a year's free membership of the Society.
: 5 runners- up will receive a year's free membership.
** IF there are more than 25 entrants the prize will be increased proportionately so encourage your friends to join in!! **

All entrants will be given a special offer with regard to the Society and Haggard books.