The 2011 Paris Literary Prize will be awarded for a Novella. The prize is 10,000 euros, a weekend in Paris and a reading at Shakespeare and Company bookshop on the left bank.

Longer than a short story, shorter than a novel, small but perfectly-formed, the novella holds an important place in literature and includes such classics as The Old Man and the Sea, Animal Farm, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and Of Mice and Men.

In keeping with Shakespeare and Company’s philosophy of supporting aspiring writers, this competition will be open to writers who have not published a novella or full-length book. There is no limit to the subject matter and we are open to being surprised – whether by the writing style, the storyline, the emotional impact or the sheer imagination of the piece.

Writers are invited to submit their initial 3,000 words and a synopsis via the website (www.parisliteraryprize.com) by 1st December 2010. Shortlisted entrants will be required to submit their full novella (20,000 – 30,000 words) by mid-March, 2011. The winner will be announced on 16th June 2011.

Full details, including eligibility, submissions guidelines and application deadlines are available at www.parisliteraryprize.com. The judging panel will be announced in early October, 2010.