Could North Edinburgh be home to a children’s national writing competition winner?

The world’s learning company Pearson is looking for budding young authors in North Edinburgh to give a modern twist to traditional tales with their new national writing competition. 

My Twist on a Tale will see traditional stories reimagined as 4-16-year-olds give their 21^st Century take on fairy tales, fables and regional folk stories of old.

Children and young people in North Edinburgh will be empowered to put themselves at the heart of their own modern-day stories, drawing on their personal interests, background and experiences as part of the competition. Winners from regions across the UK and across Key Stages will see their works published as a collection of short stories that celebrate a diverse and modern-day Britain.

Katy Lewis, Head of English, Drama and Languages at Pearson said: “Diversity, inclusion and relatability matter. They matter in the literature we consume and the books, poetry and plays we put in front of our children. We believe that at whatever age – from early stages to adulthood, people should feel represented in the literature they read and the stories they write.

“We want children and young people in North Edinburgh to create stories that reflect the world they live in – whether that’s magical smartphones or not so evil stepmothers. We want all who take part in My Twist on a Tale to enjoy finding their voice and to express themselves freely. We cannot wait to see what they create!”

To help inspire young writers as part of My Twist on a Tale, Pearson is providing a free selection of fables, fairy tales and folk stories, as well as resources to support schools, parents, carers, libraries and community groups who are taking part. In addition to written entries, audio entries will also be accepted for those with special access requirements.

Entries must be submitted by Friday 29th November 2019, when an expert judging panel will decide on the winning stories.

To find out more about Pearson’s My Twist on a Tale writing competition and how you can get involved, please visit: pearsonschools.co.uk/mytwistonatale