OPPORTUNITY: Seeking Volunteer Reviewers for the Author of Tomorrow Award

Are you a recent graduate, undergraduate or postgraduate in English or Publishing? Are you looking to pursue a career in writing or publishing? Or perhaps you're a teacher or librarian passionate about empowering the next generation of literary talent?

We are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to read, review and provide feedback on the short adventure stories submitted for the 2026 Author of Tomorrow competition.

We will host group training sessions on Zoom, sharing our review process so you know what to look for in the stories you are allocated. You must be available for this hour-long training session on either Wednesday 29th April, 7-8pm, or Thursday 30th April, 1-2pm. 

The stories you'll review will be engaging and imaginative, with a maximum length of 3,000 words. The reading period will take place over May and June.

Key Dates: 

• Expressions of Interest Deadline: 22nd April
• Panel in Place: 24th April
• Training Sessions: 29th April (7-8pm) and 30th April (1-2pm)
• Stories Allocated: 1st May
• Review Deadline: 15th June

To express your interest, simply send an email to charlotte@wilbur-niso-smithfoundation.org by 22nd April. Please include "AoT Reviewer" in the subject line and share why you wish to volunteer.

Join us in this wonderful opportunity to support aspiring authors and contribute to the literary world of tomorrow.