WVW Contest F.A.Q. #2

Continuing the series of Frequently Asked Questions about the West Virginia Writers, Inc., Annual Writing Competitions.

QUESTION:   I am interested in submitting work for the writer's contest but I'm not sure how to proceed. I want to compete in the book contest. The instructions say 7,500 words plus a synopsis of one page. Does that mean that I send the 1st portion of the book and then encapsulate the rest in a summary? I have never entered before and I want to get it right.

ANSWER:  We advise writers to send the 7500 words in their manuscript that they feel best exemplifies their work.  This may come from the beginning, middle, end, or a combination of passages from more than one of those.  However, when considering what to send, keep in mind that a judge might prefer a cohesive segment, rather than samples.   The synopsis must be included to show the judge the overall story.