Once Upon a Time
a Teen Author Boot Camp anthology
Once Upon a Time
Since the beginning of time, the ordinary and the extraordinary have come together in the simple phrase: “Once Upon a Time...”
As readers, we’re spellbound by tales of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.
As writers, we create tales of magic, mystery, and mayhem, inviting readers of all ages to lose themselves in the hidden secrets of enchanted forests, the mysteries of ancient civilizations, and in witnessing the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.
Whether you're a lover of fantasy, science fiction, horror, or heartwarming adventures, join us as we embark on a journey through the realms of imagination, where anything is possible and every story is a new beginning.
After all, in the world of "Once Upon a Time," the magic never ends.
**This anthology is published in partnership with Teen Author Boot Camp, the nation’s largest writing conference for teens.**
The Details:
please read carefully
Please note that you're submitting your story for an actual publication process. Your story will be chosen based on its content and presentation, so make sure to proofread and send your best work.
Those chosen will be expected to work with an editor to polish their story. It should be a fun, rewarding process that will prepare you for life as an author, so come with an open mind and excitement for making your story the best it can be.
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This is a TEEN anthology. Only writers between the ages of 13-19 will be considered.
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There is NO entry fee.
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Maximum word count is 6,000.
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Stories should be new and NOT published elsewhere.
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Submissions will be accepted from June 1st – December 15th.
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All entrants will be notified of their story’s status by December 23rd.
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The anthology will be available for purchase at StoryCon 2025 in Salt Lake City, UT and on Amazon after the conference.
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If your story is chosen, you will receive a contract and additional details about edits, payment, and final due dates.
Authors chosen for the anthology (not finalists*) will receive $20, a custom TABC name badge to wear at the conference, and one print copy of the anthology to be picked up at the pre-release party or at StoryCon, both located in Utah. (Authors unable to attend the conference or launch will have their book and payment mailed to them.)
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*For stories that are great but don’t quite make it into the anthology, we’ll offer the opportunity for finalists to have their stories posted on our website for readers to find and leave comments.
Ready to enter?
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fill out the form at the link below.
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attach your story in Word or PDF–title of story and name of author should be included in the document (Winning authors will be required to submit the final story in Word for editing.)
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send us your best work--you can't edit the story or your information once it's been entered.
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Best of luck!