Amazon opens A Christmas Carol writing competition

Amazon has launched a new competition in search of a modern reimagining of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, with the winning book to be published in time for Christmas.

The nationwide writing competition is open to all adult UK residents, with the winning story to be professionally illustrated by award-winning children’s book illustrator, Ian Beck, who created the album art for Elton John’s "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". The title will be published through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), available in both print and digital formats in the run up to Christmas and the author will receive a £2,000 Amazon Gift Card and a Kindle Fire tablet.

"Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has remained close to the hearts of readers since its first publication in 1843 when it sold out in just five days, just in time for Christmas Eve", according to Amazon. "By the close of the following year, several editions had been released. In similar fashion, Amazon hopes to help further the career of a storyteller this festive season."

Amazon launched the competition for the first time last year, asking then for reimaginings of Clement Clarke Moore's "Twas the Night Before Christmas". It was won by Lucy Banks, who will return to judge this year's competition, along with illustrator Beck, and a team of Amazon books editors.

Alessio Santarelli, director of Kindle Content EU at Amazon, said: “We are excited to see what brilliant writers across Britain come up with this year. A Christmas Carol embodies the spirit of Christmas, and in seeking out a modern-day interpretation, we hope to spread these positive messages while helping to elevate the career of a talented author.”

Beck added: “I look forward to bringing the winning story to life through my illustrations. A Christmas Carol’s simple message of Christmas generosity has been such an inspiration in many forms for generations and it will surely continue to inspire through this competition. My family and I have always loved reading together, a special ritual at Christmas time along with the carols from King's College chapel and dressing the tree. Illustrating this new tale for families to read together this coming festive season will be a pleasure.”

UK-based authors should submit up to a 1,000 word story in English by 7th November to christmasonkindle@amazon.co.uk.