Storyunlikely — Short Story Contest

Overview
Storyunlikely, an independent literary platform, has issued an open call for its Short Story Contest. The contest seeks both fiction and nonfiction, with no entry fee, and is open to writers globally. The prize package, valued at $4,000, includes publication and a professional illustration created by a human artist. This contest is a rare opportunity for writers to gain visibility and compensation without financial barriers. The organization's commitment to pairing selected work with original illustration suggests a curatorial interest in narrative craft that engages visual imagination. While the exact aesthetic preferences of the jury are not specified, the contest's title—Storyunlikely—implies an appreciation for unexpected, perhaps unconventional or speculative narratives that defy easy categorization. The inclusion of nonfiction indicates a broad interpretation of storytelling, welcoming factual narratives that possess a strong narrative drive. Writers should note that the prize package's components are not itemized, but the combination of monetary reward, publication, and illustration represents a substantive endorsement of the winning work. As a no-fee contest, it aligns with inclusive practices, though the absence of a stated deadline in the provided information means interested writers should consult the organization's website for current details.