The Quillstone First Novel Prize
N2,000,000 and publication for a first novel
For unpublished novelists living in Nigeria. Free to enter. Judged by a novelist, a bookseller, a critic and one reader picked by lottery from our mailing list.
Key dates for the next prize
Example dates for this demo. The countdown shows time until entries open.
- 5 JanuaryEntries open
- 31 MarchEntries close at midnight
- JuneLonglist of twelve announced
- AugustShortlist of five, with readings in Kaduna
- OctoberWinner announced at the Barnawa shop
Eligibility
The rules in brief
Who can enter
Writers aged 18 or over, living in Nigeria, who have not published a novel before. Short stories, poems or a self-published non-fiction book do not count against you. Manuscripts must be complete, unpublished and between 50,000 and 120,000 words, in English or Hausa.
Each writer may enter one novel. Entry is free; we will never ask for a fee.
What the winner receives
A cash prize of N2,000,000, a publishing contract with Quillstone with an advance on top of the prize, a full edit, and a launch at our shop and at a book festival. The four other shortlisted writers each receive N250,000 and a manuscript assessment.
Since 2021
Past winners
- 2025
The Tailor of Tudun Wada
Example winner
- 2024
Nine Mornings in Jos
Example winner
- 2023
What the Hawk Saw
Example winner
All books, authors and quotes on this site are invented for this demo.
Register your interest
We will email you when entries open, with the entry form and full rules.
You are registered
Your enquiry goes straight to the team's COVORN dashboard. Someone from the office will reply within three working days. Example details for this demo.
Questions
Questions writers and readers ask
Can I enter if I live abroad?
Not yet. The prize is for writers living in Nigeria.
Can I enter a novel in Hausa?
Yes, with a two page English summary.
Does an agent need to submit for me?
No. Writers enter themselves.