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Celebrating Literary Excellence: The 34th Annual Tom Howard/John H. Reid Contest

Winning Writers has once again illuminated the literary scene with the announcement of the winners of its esteemed 34th Annual Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest. With a remarkable array of submissions from around the world, this year's contest has highlighted the extraordinary talents of writers from various backgrounds and experiences.

The Winners

In the fiction category, the first prize of $3,500 was awarded to Jaime Gill from Brighton, England for his compelling story Black Sky, Blue Earth. This lyrical narrative offers a unique exploration of the human experience through the eyes of the last surviving astronaut on a colonization mission to Mars. In the narrative, the protagonist reflects on his relationship with a deceased crewmate, providing profound insights about humanity amidst an impending ecological disaster on Earth. Tamra Badgett, the final judge, emphasized the story’s deeper thematic focus, stating, "It centers less on the mechanics of a space mission and more on bridging the gap between one person's interior and another's."

The nonfiction award was given to Jonah Walters of Flushing, New York for his essay The Burnable Seas. This thoughtful piece intricately weaves personal narratives with historical insights as the author confronts a cancer diagnosis. The essay delves into the ecological and cultural significance of kelp as a traditional medicinal ingredient, challenging readers to reconsider where knowledge leads us when faced with life's limits. Badgett noted the dynamic interplay of personal and researched elements throughout the essay, which culminates in a meditation on the intersections of knowledge, health, and survival.

Honorable Mentions

The contest also recognized ten honorable mentions with a prize of $500 each: Vinod Busjeet, Jordan Guevara, David McArthur, Kim McLarin, Sena Moon, Gina Ochsner, Xavier Prince, Jillian Grant Shoichet, Tracey Slaughter, and Corinne Young. These writers displayed remarkable creativity and insight, affirming the contest's role in fostering diverse literary voices.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate these talented writers, it is essential to remember that the competition continues. The 35th Annual Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest is now open for submissions until May 1, 2027. Writers are encouraged to submit pieces that range up to 6,000 words, with an entry fee of $27 per work. The contest remains open to both published and unpublished pieces, ensuring inclusivity for all writers.

Tamra Badgett will return as the final judge, bringing her expertise to this year's round. In addition, Annie Mydla, the managing editor of Winning Writers, will take on the role of assistant judge, succeeding Sarah Halper. Winning Writers, recognized as one of the "101 Best Websites for Writers" by Writer's Digest, continues to support the literary community through various contests, including the North Street Book Prize and the Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest.

Conclusion

The Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling amidst evolving challenges. Congratulations to the winners and all participants for their extraordinary contributions to literature. The journey continues, and writers worldwide are encouraged to share their unique narratives and insights in future contests. Let's keep the spirit of creativity alive!