Lucy Kennedy encourages kids to take part in Specsavers short story competition

Jody Coffey

There is still plenty of time for budding authors to get their short stories in.

Children’s author and broadcaster, Lucy Kennedy, has teamed up with Specsavers in the hopes of seeing more aspiring writers enter their nationwide short story competition.

As author of the much-loved children’s book series, The Friendship Faries, as well as mum to three young children, Lucy is urging children to get their written submissions in.

Winners in the junior and senior categories of the Specsavers competition will win €500 for their school library as well as having them stocked with all the shortlisted children’s titles for 2023.

It doesn’t end there. Winners will see Lucy Kennedy visit their schools and perform a reading of her latest book in The Friendship Fairies series.

Speaking on the competition, Lucy says it is the perfect way to foster creativity and outside-the-box thinking, as well as giving joy and exploring imagination.

“Writing is an amazing way to build confidence as it allows children to communicate their own viewpoint, thoughts, and feelings. Writing isn’t about having the best grammar or spelling; it’s about encouraging self – expression through a safe space.

“I would encourage all parents and guardians to get their children involved as it’s great way for them to use their imagination, and they might even win something for their school too.”

This completion also serves as an incredible introduction into reading and writing, and, possibly, the start of a beautiful relationship with story-telling.

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How To Enter

The short story must be no longer than 500 words (250 is sufficient if a child is under the age of 10), and inspired by the below picture:

Ensure to include the story title – it can be written or typed. If it is being posted, please print or write on a sheet of A4 paper and staple it to your form.

Groups of submissions from schools are also very welcome.

The closing date for entries is Friday, November 24th, and entries must be submitted online at www.specsavers.ie/irish-book-awards or posted to the following address to be considered:

Specsavers Short Story Competition,
c/o WHPR, 6 Ely Place, Dublin 2.

Lucy’s Top Writing Tips

Lucy’s number one tip is to “believe in yourself and the stories you want to tell”. She says when you have confidence in your idea, others will too.
Talk about what you know. If you love something and know lots about it, use that. Think of all of the things that make you happy or what would make you happy. Have a dog you adore? Maybe he can be the main character. Have a favourite sport? Perhaps the characters of your story play it.
Being curious is encouraged. Explore different genres and their worlds and learn from the way their authors introduce characters or thicken their plots, it may help inspire your story.
The most important one: have fun! “Writing should be an enjoyable and creative process. Let your imaginations run wild and have fun with your storytelling,” Lucy says.

Good luck!