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Tucson Festival of Books Literary Awards

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About the press

The Tucson Festival of Books Literary Awards, established in 2009 as part of the Tucson Festival of Books, is dedicated to discovering and supporting emerging writers of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. The awards are administered by the University of Arizona and the Arizona Daily Star, with a mission to celebrate literary excellence and foster a vibrant literary community in the Southwest. Winning manuscripts are considered for publication by the University of Arizona Press, providing a tangible pathway to a wider readership. The awards are open to writers who have not published a book in the genre in which they are submitting, ensuring a focus on new and underrepresented voices.

Calls & opportunities

2 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-11-01

Tucson Festival of Books Literary Awards 2027

OpenDeadline · 2026-11-01

Tucson Festival of Books Literary Awards 2027

Manuscript submissions

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Writers should submit previously unpublished manuscripts in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. The awards are specifically for writers who have not yet published a book in the genre of submission. Carefully review the guidelines on the festival website for genre-specific word limits and formatting requirements. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify promptly if your work is accepted elsewhere. The competition typically opens in the spring, with a deadline in late summer. Winning manuscripts receive cash prizes and are considered for publication by the University of Arizona Press. Ensure your manuscript is polished and adheres to the stated theme or genre focus, if any, for the current cycle.