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Roger J Carlson

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This is the spot to post leads for good Christian writing, whether fiction or non-fiction. What are they looking for? Who are the contacts? And so forth.
 

Robin Bayne

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This is info I received as a previous contributor to Cup of Comfort books-- the group is legit and makes a nice product. The only problem I've had with them is the lack of communication-- I never got acceptance messages, but much later received a check and author's copy.




Adams Media has ordered up three new Cups of Comfort, and I wanted you to be among the first to know. I hope you will forgive me sending this to you as a group email, but it's the only way I can get word out to everyone quickly ... and when you see the deadlines, you'll understand that time is of the essence is my getting word out about this paid publishing opportunity with the popular Cup of Comfort book series.



I'm really jazzed about these new anthologies, as the themes are near and dear to my heart: dogs, single moms, and writers. And I hope you'll submit stories for all three.



Below, please find the call for submissions and guidelines for these books. Please feel free to share them with anyone you think might be interested in submitting stories for publication consideration in any, or all, of these books. I’m on a tight deadline with both the Dog Lovers and Writers volumes, so truly appreciate your assistance in spreading the word. And I look forward to reading your stories.



Thanks!



Warm regards,

Colleen Sell

Cup of Comfort editor

[email protected] (direct)

[email protected] (via publisher)





A Cup of Comfort Call for Submissions



A Cup of Comfort is a best-selling anthology (book) series featuring inspiring true stories about the extraordinary experiences of “ordinary” people. We're now actively seeking submissions for the following new volumes:



A Cup of Comfort for Dog Lovers



As any dog lover will attest, dogs are, indeed, our best friends… and so much more. They’re also our helpers, heroes, champions, teachers, and beloved family members. For this volume, we seek heartwarming true stories that speak to the amazing bond between dogs and the people who love them. Stories can focus on any experience/theme that demonstrates how a dog has inspired and/or enriched the life/lives of a human(s). Possible themes include but are not limited to a dog’s:

Devotion and loyalty
Courage
Amazing feats
Role as a member of a family or community
Companionship
Therapeutic effect on a human
Unique relationship with a person
Unique relationship with another pet or animal
Inspirational effect on one or more people
Amusing, endearing, exceptional ways
We do NOT want sad stories about a pet’s suffering or death. However, stories can be about the life of a dog that is now deceased and can include a fond farewell to a lost pet—provided the story isn’t solely about the pet’s death.



Please see writers’ and submission guidelines, below.



Submission Deadline: July 31, 2006*



A Cup of Comfort for Writers



Only another writer can truly understand what it’s like to aspire to become and to be a writer. For this anthology of true stories celebrating (and commiserating) the writing life, we seek compelling, insightful, and exceptionally well-written personal essays from writers of every persuasion and level of experience. Possible themes include but are not limited to:

Mentors or teachers
Overcoming challenges in becoming a writer, in your life as a writer, or in your writing process
Milestone(s) in your journey to become a writer or as a writer
Discovering and/or heeding the call to become a writer
Writers groups / the camaraderie of other writers
Why you write
Transcending self-doubt and fear
What writing has taught you about life
What life has taught you about writing
Your muse: what inspires your writing
Best or worst writing experience and what you learned/gained from it
Why you write
Please see writers’ and submission guidelines, below.



Submission Deadline: August 31, 2006*



A Cup of Comfort for Single Mothers



As Oprah Winfrey has often said, parenting is the most difficult and important job in the world. It can be even tougher for single mothers, who face all the usual parenting challenges plus another whole set of unique ones. But single motherhood also brings many untold rewards, for both moms and children. For this collection of personal essays celebrating single mothers, we seek uplifting true stories about the joys and the difficulties of single mothering. The majority of stories selected for publication will be written from the single mother’s point of view, but we will also consider stories written by the children of single mothers as well as by third parties with intimate knowledge of (and the permission of) the single mother and her child(ren). Possible themes include but are not limited to:

Juggling the myriad responsibilities of single motherhood
Raising sons or daughters without fathers
The support of family, friends, other mothers
Hard lessons learned
Busting myths about single mothering
Defying stereotypes about single moms and/or children of single moms
Overcoming adversity
Self-acceptance and self-respect in a society that sometimes disparages single mothers
Unconventional wisdoms gained
Blessings, joys, and rewards of being a single mother or the child of a single mother
The unique bond between a single mother and her child(ren)
The courage, resilience, ingenuity, devotion, accomplishments, and/or integrity of a single mom
Why you chose single motherhood (if applicable) and how you’ve made it work
The unexpected and/or under-recognized advantages, joys, and/or rewards of being a single mother or having a single mother
Please see writers’ and submission guidelines, below.



Submission Deadline: December 31, 2006*



*Because stories are reviewed and semifinalists are selected throughout the submission period, early submission is strongly encouraged.



Writers’ and Submission Guidelines



How to Create a Savory Cup of Comfort Story



A Cup of Comfort stories weave powerful life lessons into vividly told tales. They are nonfiction stories that read like fiction but always ring true. They are slice-of-life tales that reveal the positive aspects of humanity; that inspire, entertain, and enlighten the readers; and that bring tears of compassion and joy to our eyes, hope to our hearts, and comfort to our souls. Cup of Comfort stories are honest, original, and creative depictions of the most important and influential experiences and relationships in our lives.



Each Cup of Comfort anthology includes a balanced mix of stories of varied themes, such as:

Extraordinary achievements and experiences of “ordinary” people
Life-changing, life-affirming, or life-defining experiences and relationships
Epiphany, synchronicity, serendipity
Finding/giving comfort in difficult times
Triumph over tragedy or adversity
Life’s blessings and miracles, big and small
Finding the silver lining in a dark cloud; turning lemons into lemonade
Relationships and experiences that bring hope, understanding, healing
Catalysts for and examples of positive change; acts of kindness


Tips for Writing a Winning Cup of Comfort Story

Create an anecdotal story about an event or series of event(s) that had a profound and positive impact on you or on the person(s) you are writing about.
Write a personal story that embodies a universal truth.
Show, don’t tell. Color your story with action, imagery, dialog, and/or dramatic scenes. Minimize use of adjectives and adverbs. Make the reader experience the events and emotions portrayed.
Write from the heart. Tell your story honestly, fully, and succinctly. Make each scene as real for the readers as it was for the person who lived or witnessed it.
Begin with a strong lead that hooks the reader and that clearly and creatively introduces the main character(s), establishes the central theme of the story (plot), and sets the scene.
Create a rich middle that depicts compelling life experiences and human emotions. The mid-section should include at least one compelling plot point (pivotal moment) as well as transitional scenes or other transitional devices that continually move the story forward and toward the conclusion.
End with a satisfying conclusion that resolves the conflict/challenge in a positive way, leaves readers with an Aha! or Wow! or Yes! moment, and elicits tears or cheers or both.
Build your story around a distinctive, compelling, and believable premise that weaves together the story and drives the plot forward.
Use lively, descriptive language that is appropriate for the time, place, and people depicted in the story as well as for A Cup of Comfort readers (that is, mainstream adult).
Read your story out loud and then revise it to remove anything that is not essential to the story. Make sure that every word counts and that the story flows together seamlessly.
One of the best ways to discover the nature and flavor of Cup of Comfort stories is to read them. A Cup of Comfort books can be purchased at booksellers everywhere. Sample stories are also posted on this Website; just click on a “Selection” in the menu to the left of this window.
Terms & Conditions

Payment: $500 Grand Prize awarded to one story per volume; $100 (each) all other stories published in book. Plus complimentary copy of book. On publication.
Story Length: 1,000–2,000 words
Point of View: First-person or third-person (no second person)
Style: Narrative essay or creative nonfiction, dramatic or humorous, but it must be a story.
We do NOT publish vignettes, short-short pieces, fiction, poetry, prose, profiles, eulogies, sermons, testimonials, journal entries, letters, academic papers, commentary, articles, diatribes, memoir chapters, academic papers, confessionals, erotica, pornography, or experimental literature.
Tone: Stories must be uplifting and positive, and can be poignant, heartwarming, and/or humorous.
Stories must be original, true, positive, and in English.
Some previously published material is acceptable. We do not publish reprints of material that has been or will be published in a glossy magazine with a large circulation or in a book (with the exception of books comprised solely of the author’s original works).
A publishing agreement will be mailed to the Author of each story selected as a finalist.
Due to the large volume of submissions received, we cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions nor report on the status of individual submissions (with the exception of finalists, who are notified in writing). The grand-prize winning story and the list of contributors for each volume are posted on the website upon the book’s publication.
Manuscripts are not returned.
Authors may submit multiple stories for any volume of Cup of Comfort .
Entrants pay no entry or reading fees.
How to Submit Your Story

Electronic (emailed) submissions are preferred; mailed and faxed submissions are acceptable.
Typed submissions are preferred; neatly handwritten submissions are acceptable.
Each submission must include the following:
Your full and legal name

Your mailing address

Your phone number

Your email address, if applicable

Story title

Story word-count (approximate)

Choose ONE of these easy submission methods:
Email: In the subject line, cite the Cup of Comfort volume (i.e., Grandparents) or theme (i.e., Bereavement). If the story is being submitted for more than one theme, list all themes in the subject line and submit the story once. Copy and paste (or type) the story into the body of the email. No attachments. One story per email. Send to:

[email protected]

-- or --

[email protected]

Mail: You can send more than one story per envelope. Include one self-addressed, postage-paid envelope for each submission. Send only the paper copy of the story; do not send computer disks or CDs. Mail to:

Cup of Comfort

Adams Media

57 Littlefield St.

Avon, Massachusetts 02322, USA

Fax: On a cover sheet or at the top of the story’s first page, indicate the volume(s)/theme(s) for which you are submitting the story and the number of pages being submitted. If the story is being submitted for more than one volume/theme, send only one copy of the story. Fax to:

1-508-427-6790



Please direct questions and suggestions to: [email protected] or [email protected]. We cannot accept phone calls.
 

Robin Bayne

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I have no experience with this group, but it looks interesting for short works:



MoreThanNovellas is coming up on its 50th short story ... it will be
promoted through our newletter and banner as the 50th short story and have a
special graphic to go with it. (I know, I know, but we do what we can) :)
I have the 47 and 48th stories, and an option for 49 (though I'd be happy to
use other writers). So that leaves 50. This is so cool. Seven years
ago---well, even three, I thought 50 was a long way off!

So please consider submitting a short story. Let me know if you would
~only~ be interested if yours is the 50th, otherwise we would love to put it
online anyway if it fits with the MoreThanNovellas mission.
MoreThanNovellas is a library of online Christ-Centered fiction. Cut off
date for the 50th short story will be August 15th. The 50th will be
released online on September 1. Short stories can be up to three parts in
length. See MoreThanNovellas.com for more information. See guidelines
below or at MoreThanNovellas.com under how to submit. Please submit using
the cut and paste information on this page. Though this is not a paying
e-zine, we have people who come to the site from 6 of the 7 continents (not
Antarctica :)), including Muslim areas of the world. It's a great
opportunity.

Mission Statement: To promote and build a library of family friendly
fiction--with values that exemplify the teachings and walk of Christ--for
people to read on the web, by maintaining MoreThanNovellas and by promoting
the work of both authors and webmasters who are called to the same purpose.

Guidelines:

Look around the website and see what's going on. You should get a good feel
for it. Of course, you can always ask.

The story does not have to be distinctly Christian, but must represent
Christian values: clean, wholesome, fun ....

The story must have a plot~adventure, romance, friendship, etc. This means
character development, setting, rising action, climax and falling action.

Must follow True Love Waits and preferably Lady in Waiting (a book) values.
If you can't understand the meaning by the titles, again you can ask ;).
Please be aware of, an pray about, how love and affection is shown ...

It is important to remember that while most of the readers are adults, some
that come through might be children. I do ask you to consider the audience
and pray over anything that may be ... impressionable.

For the poets out there ... I have limited submissions to romantic poetry.
Why? Because there are ~so many~ poetry sites out there. By romantic it can
be romantic between man and woman or between us and God.

Please do not submit a story you have posted elsewhere on the web. If people
run across similar stories over and over they stop looking.

The author keeps the rights to all stories. I will place your e-mail,
website, etc along with your story and I will create a graphic for you. Just
look around the website and see what's going on.



---
www.morethannovellas.com: Free to read online Novel(la)s & Short Stories.
Holiday Stories up now ... check out Operation Noel ... a novella for the
holidays.

Challenge your writing skills and delight the writers that are
participating, by adding to the continuing sagas in the IF room ... what
happens IF ... there's always a cliffhanger waiting for you.

Currently Accepting Submissions: novels, novellas and short stories ... see
Submission Guidelines/How to Submit @ morethannovellas.com
 

Robin Bayne

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No experience with this guy either, but I've not found anything bad about him and I sent him a writing sample.



(Don't know much about this...but it was on faithwriters)

DATE: 7/18/2006

SUBJECT: Story Publishing

FROM: Carl Blunt

MESSAGE:

Website URL: www.CarlBlunt.com

Compensation: Royalties - Book Published and Marketed

Project Title: Seeking Writing Team of 12 for Short Fiction Books

Summary: We are beginning a new "change the world" project supported by
several financial donors designed to create 25 short fiction books (10,000 words
each) over the next year. We are looking to build a writing team. Team
members will possess the unique ability to communicate a compelling story. Writing
will be primarily by assignment. The books will receive significant marketing
and promotion. Authors will also be encouraged to market their books locally
and regionally. Author will receive royalties from book sales. If you are
chosen to be part of the writing team, you will spend some time on the
telephone with the story creator as he outlines the basics of the book you will be
assigned to write. These books will receive extensive marketing and promotion.
Our donors are planning for this to be a long-term project that results in
many, many books over the years. In other words, if you become part of the
writing team, you may be involved in many future books. We look forward to
receiving your work.

Category: Creative Writing

Project Details: PROJECT LENGTH - Please submit a sample chapter, preferably
the opening chapter of a fictional story of a main character retelling the
story of a crisis situation in his/her life (500 to 1,000 words). Remember the
entire book will be 10,000 words, so don't give away too much with the
opening chapter.

TARGET AUDIENCE - Teen or Adults. Each book will focus on one main character
and his/her relationship with God. Some will be focused on teens, others on
adults.

WRITING STYLE - compelling, suspenseful fiction full of passion and
emotional elements

DELIVERY FORMAT - final product will be 10,000 word fiction book

HOW WILL THE CONTENT BE USED - book

CONTENT OWNERSHIP - royalties to author

REPLY E-MAIL: [email protected]_ (mailto:[email protected])

PHONE: na
 

HoosierCowgirl

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I sent the "Cup of Comfort" information to my mom, who's a pretty good essayist but does not consider herself a writer. Her dad died very young, leaving her older brother to run the farm and her mom widowed wtih three children.

Thanks for the heads up.

Ann
 

Robin Bayne

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Special Needs Children: New Collection

Are you the parent, caregiver, or relative of a special needs child? I am writing a one year meditative, devotional for parents and family of special needs children. It is designed to encourage, to offer ideas, help, and practical ways to relieve the stress of raising a child with special needs. I have included true stories from my adventures with my autistic son--and the saga continues. But I don't want to fill up all 52 weeks with just my stories. I would love to include the spectrum of parents and their children.

I can't offer any payment. All I can do is include your story in a book that will be published at some point in the new year. I can promise a copy of the book to all contributors and I can promise that if chosen, your story will be read. My hope is that it will help those who are facing the challenges of raising a child with extraordinary needs will feel a bit more understood by those who do not have special needs children.

I am looking for essays in first person about you child or children, when he or she was first born/diagnosed, what condition your child has, and your frustrations. Then, please include ways you deal with the ongoing challenges. You can choose one particular incident that sums up the whole of life with a special needs child. You could write out what a typical day is like. You can write whatever is pressing hardest against your heart and mind. In each chapter, there is a story with an encouraging message, a prayer, practical tips/advice, and an assignment that is geared toward helping parents to take care of themselves as people. Many parents of special needs children stop caring about themselves, their marriage, etc. Please be sure to include--if you are comfortable with it--if you are a single parent.

Essays should be no longer than 1,000 words. Please send to: Donna Conger, [email protected]. Thank you.
 

Robin Bayne

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TIFERET: A Journal of Spiritual Literature
CONTEST GUIDELINES

$750 Poetry Award
Alicia Ostriker, Judge

$750 Fiction Award
Elizabeth Cox, Judge

$750 Nonfiction Award
Bruce Chilton, Judge

RULES FOR ENTRY

All work submitted should be previously unpublished and further the mission
of TIFERET: A Journal of Spiritual Literature - to help reveal Spirit
through
the written word. TIFERET publishes authors from various traditions,
cultures,
faiths and beliefs – each bringing a unique perspective to our universal
theme. References to Spirit can be subtle or direct. If you are not familiar
with
our magazine, feel free to visit _www.tiferetjournal.com_
(http://www.tiferetjournal.com/) to view samples from
past issues.

Submissions must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2006.
A $20.00 entry fee must be included with each submission.
Each submission can consist of no more than six poems, or one story (up to 30
pages), or one essay (up to 30 pages).
Each entry should be double-spaced on plain white paper and paginated. The
title should appear on each page of the manuscript. The author’s name should
not
appear anywhere on the manuscript.
A separate cover sheet should include the author's name, the genre (poetry,
fiction, or nonfiction) title/s submitted, address, phone number and email
address. Please paper-clip, not staple, to attach this cover sheet to the
manuscr
ipt.
Entries may be submitted either by US Mail or by email. Send mailed
submissions to TIFERET “Contest” PO Box 659, Peapack, NJ 07977. By email,
send an MS
Word (or .rtf) attachment to [email protected]_
(mailto:[email protected]) .
<editors(at)tiferetjournal.comeditors(at)tiferetjour>

Emailed submissions should include CONTEST ENTRY in subject line and author's
name, phone number, and email address (in list form) into the body of the
email message (since this will act as the cover sheet) – as well as the
title(s)
submitted and the genre.
Entry fees may by paid by check made out to TIFERET or by credit card by
phoning our secure line: 908-781-2556.
Manuscripts will not be returned, so please don't send your only copy.
 

Robin Bayne

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We are in immediate need of funny, inspirational and heartfelt stories for our newest upcoming title "Chicken Soup for the Menopausal Soul." Yes, that's right, we're doing a book on menopause! And we're covering all facets of menopause, from peri-menopause to post-menopause, and everything in-between including the aging process as it relates to menopause (i.e., eye sight, weight gain, memory issues). We may even include a few funny female mid-life crisis stories!


Tentative chapter headings include:

What's Age Got to Do with It?: Menopause happens to all ages, especially peri-menopause and those dreaded aging symptoms (eye and memory problems, hair loss, weight gain, mid-life crisis, etc.).

The Next Generation: Stories on what mom or grandma never told you about "the change" and how a new generation is handling "the change" in their own way!

Mental-Pause: Funny stories about the funny side of menopause (is there such a thing?).

Perspectives: Stories from everyone else's point-of-view, except the person actually having the symptoms. Need stories from family members, friends and/or spouses.

Hormones, Schormones: Stories about hormones, hormone replace therapy, bio-identical hormone replacement, or just the "H" word in general, and how the lack of, or need for, hormones impacts women going through menopause.

Who Turned Up the Heat?: What's a menopause book without funny hot flash and night sweat stories?

Reflections: Stories about menopause and how it can impact a person's life in a positive manner.

Now that It's Finally Over!: Stories about women finally getting completely through menopause and rediscovering life!


Stories must be true (non-fiction), written in first person, and 1,000 words or less. Stories should make readers laugh, cry or sigh, and be positive, universal and non-controversial. Also, the "point" or "message" should be evident without preaching. No essays, commentaries, tributes, philosophical or biographical pieces will be accepted. Please refer to other Chicken Soup books to better understand our story-telling style, or you can read some wonderful sample menopause stories at www.PublishingSyndicate.com.

You may submit more than one story. We accept previously published pieces, as long as you retained all rights to your story. For each story selected, a 50-word biography will be included about the author and a permission fee of $200 per story will be paid. We also need menopause cartoons and poems; if accepted, payments of $100 and/or $50 respectfully will be paid upon publication. The submission deadline is November 1, 2006, but the sooner, the better!

You can submit stories one of three ways:
1) e-mail stories through the Chicken Soup for the Soul website at www.chickensoup.com. Be sure to select "Menopausal Soul" as the book title.
2) e-mail your story with your name, address and phone number to [email protected], and be sure to list "Menopausal Soul submission" in the subject line. Please note that we do not accept e-mail attachments; for specific submission information guidelines, please visit www.PublishingSyndicate.com.

3) You may mail your submission to:

Chicken Soup for the Menopausal Soul
c/o Publishing Syndicate
P.O. Box 607
Orangevale, CA 95662

We look forward to reading your story!

Jack Canfield
Mark Victor Hansen
Dahlynn McKowen
 

Robin Bayne

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Illustrated Chicken Soup Series for KIDS!!


Chicken Soup for the Soul will continue to inspire young kids through a series of character-building books. This unique series of short reads will feature colorful illustrations of popular animated characters while teaching kids ages 4-7 about positive character through real life stories. We are accepting TRUE stories for publishing consideration from adults written in first person about a childhood experience. Stories must be written for kids ages 4-7 and focus on character-building traits such as Friendship, Accepting Others, Accepting Yourself, Kindness, Honesty and Persistence. Authors of chosen stories will be paid upon publication! Send stories to [email protected] by November 1, 2006. Email [email protected] for details and writing guidelines.
 

Robin Bayne

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Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul, The Real Deal on SELF-ESTEEM

We are seeking Chicken Soup style stories (that make the readers laugh, cry happy tears or get goose bumps and leave the reader uplifted and inspired) related to teen life and self-esteem-especially on the following topics:

Creating safe space-special places you go for strength and renewal, or people who have shown up in your life as a safe haven for thinking things through and redirecting your choices.

Self-Talk-recognizing that what you say to yourself critically impacts how you feel. Have you learned when the voice in your head is helping you and when it is hurting you? Do you have a story that demonstrates your ability to choose whether or not to honor your self-talk? Or a funny story of suddenly realizing that the voice that is causing you so much angst (or encouraging you to go forth) is a voice that is coming from within your own head-and you don't have to believe it unless you choose to?

Self-esteem-how you feel about yourself. Do you have a story that illustrates that how you feel about yourself makes a difference in what you do? Do you have stories of people who supported your self-esteem OR uplifting stories of recognizing that who you hang around makes a big difference in your self-esteem? Sometimes the things we would do if we had more self-esteem are the very same things we need to do to build our self-esteem (speak in public, perform in a talent show, talk to your parents about an important issue). Do you have a story that illustrates how "just doing it" built your confidence so it was easier to do again?

Asking for what you need-Do you have a story about making a request for something you needed or telling someone something hard to tell them, that has a powerful uplifting ending?

The power of words.Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words may hurt forever.do you have a story about overcoming something painful that was said to you, or apologizing for something painful that you said to someone else? Did someone share their expectations of you (either negative like "you'll never amount to anything" or positive like "someday you will be a lawyer") that you had to overcome in order to become yourself and fulfill your own expectations?

Taking responsibility: Do you have a powerful story that illustrates the importance of taking responsibility for something that you did, asking for forgiveness, or making amends for your actions? Do you have a story about recognizing that how you respond to a situation makes all the difference in how it turns out? Do you have a story about how you (your attitude, your thoughts, your actions) were your own worst enemy-and how by realizing that you were able to change your life?

The Truth shall set you free: Do you have an uplifting story about telling the truth, particularly the difficult truth? Or how learning the whole truth about a situation allowed you to have more compassion for someone else?

Behind the mask: Do you have stories about the "masks" you have worn-pretending to be something you are not, smiling when you didn't feel like smiling, being angry or scary just to keep people at a distance?

We are not alone: Do you have stories about realizing that your loneliness was really created by your choice not to reach out or connect with others? Do you have stories about the power of spending time alone?

Standing up for what you know right-even when everyone else doesn't seem to know it. Do you have positive, uplifting stories about overcoming peer pressure, doing the right thing, going against the crowd to stand up for something you believe in?

Intuition/conscience-how about stories where you trusted your intuition, or asked yourself what to do about something-and your self answered you with good advice? Or stories where your intuition was TRYING to guide you and you weren't listening?

Any empowering, uplifting stories related to the many aspects of self-esteem. PLEASE Email them to Eve Hogan: [email protected]

Please either submit stories as an attached Word Doc WITH YOUR COMPLETE CONTACT INFORMATION ON THE SAME PAGE AS THE STORY or submit your story in the body of an email WITH YOUR COMPLETE CONTACT INFORMATION IN THE EMAIL. Please DO NOT send your contact info separately from the story. To be considered, stories should not exceed 1200 words and must be inspiring while making the readers laugh, cry happy tears or give them goose bumps.

THE DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING STORIES IS OCT. 15, 2006.
 

Robin Bayne

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Chicken Soup for the Red Hat Society Soul

Stories are immediately needed for Chicken Soup for the Red Hat Society Soul, due out in October 2007. The Red Hat Society (RHS) is a social organization that features "fun after fifty (and before)" for women of all walks of life. To learn more about RHS, please visit their website at www.RedHatSociety.com.

Submission information: all stories submitted for consideration must relate to RHS, be true and written in first-person. They must be 1,000 words or less and should touch the souls of our readers, making them laugh, cry, sigh or just say, "Wow!" Stories should be positive, hopeful, universal and non-controversial. The "point" or "message" should be evident without preaching; essays, eulogies, commentaries, tributes, sermons, philosophical or biographical pieces will not be accepted.

You may submit more than one story and previously published pieces are considered, as long as you still own all rights. For each story published in the book, a 50-word biography will be included about the author and a permission fee of $200 per story and $100 per poem will be paid. The submission deadline is November 1, 2006.

Submit stories through the Chicken Soup for the Soul website at www.chickensoup.com. Be sure to select "Red Hat Society" as the book title. To learn more about this title and to see a special offer, please visit www.PublishingSyndicate.com and click on the "Story Needs" link, then on Chicken Soup for the Red Hat Society Soul.
 

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Chicken Soup for the Working Mom's Soul
Share Your Favorite Story

Most working mothers are juggling so many balls they can barely keep them all in the air. Some days they feel like master-performers, and others they feel like bumbling clowns! Chicken Soup for the Working Mother's (Mom?) Soul will share the trials and tribulations, happiness and hilarities of being a working mom.

Topics will include but not be limited to:

Hi Ho Hi Ho, Off to Work I Go
Home Again, Home Again, Rigetty Jig
Mama Never Said it Would Be Easy
Sign Me Up!
Where Do I Resign?
I'm Trying to Balance! Where's My Umbrella?
If the Boss Only Knew.
A Mom First
When Can It Be About Me?
The Joys and Jocularity


We're looking for inspirational, true stories, 1000 words or less, that will make readers laugh, cry, or sigh. Stories should be positive, universal, and non-controversial. The "point" or "message" should be evident without preaching. No essays, commentaries, tributes, philosophical or biographical pieces will be accepted.

You may submit more than one story, whether original or a favorite from magazines, newspapers, or other sources. For each story selected in the book, a 50-word biography will be included about the author and a permission fee of $200 per story and $50.00 per poem will be paid. The submission deadline is July 31st, 2006.

Email submissions are strongly preferred. Please submit your story through our website at www.chickensoup.com. Be sure to select "working Mom" as the book title.

If unable to email, please send a hard copy (and on CD if possible) c/o Chicken Soup for the Working Mom;s Soul to
25321 Heather Vale St. Saugus CA 91350. Due to the volume of stories we receive, we are unable to respond to each contribution. Finalist, only, will be notified prior to publication via a permission request.

If you received this e-mail it is because you are a valued Chicken Soup for the Soul contributor. This list is only used for story call outs or to inform you of a new release hitting the bookstores.
 

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Dear Chicken Soup for the Soul Contributor,

Dear Friend of Chicken Soup for the Soul,

We owe most of our success to writers like you for the wonderful contributions of inspiration, hope, overcoming life's challenges and realized dreams.

We hope that this letter finds you well and sitting atop a plethora of stories that you just don't know what to do with. We welcome stories from contributors of any age.


Recipe for A Winning Chicken Soup for the Soul® Story

A Chicken Soup for the Soul® story is an inspirational, true story about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. It is a story that opens the heart and rekindles the spirit. It is a simple, inter-denominational, living art piece that touches the soul of the readers and helps them discover basic principles they can use in their own lives. They are personal and often filled with emotion and drama. They are filled with vivid images created by using the five senses. In some stories, the readers feel that they are actually in the scene with the people.

Chicken Soup stories have a beginning, middle and an ending that often closes with a punch, creating emotion rather than simply talking about it. Chicken Soup for the SoulÒ stories have heart, but also something extra.an element that makes us all feel more hopeful, more connected, more thankful, more passionate and better about life in general. A story that causes tears, laughter, goosebumps or any combination of these. A good story covers the range of human emotions.

The most powerful stories are about people extending themselves, or performing an act of love, service or courage for another person.


Guidelines for a Chicken Soup for the Soul® Story
1. Tell an exciting, sad or funny story about something that has happened to you or someone you know. Make sure that you introduce the character(s).

2. Tell your story in a way that will make the reader cry, laugh or get goose bumps (the good kind!) Don't leave anything out - how did you feel?

3. The story should start with action; it should include a problem, issue or situation. It should include dialogue and the character should express their feelings though the conflict or situation. It should end in a result, such as a lesson learned, a positive change or pay-off.

4. Above all, let it come from your HEART! Your story is important!

What a Chicken Soup for the Soul® story IS NOT:
1. A sermon, an essay or eulogy.
2. A term paper, thesis, letter or journal entry.
3. About politics or controversial issues.
4. A "My Grandma Just Died, and Let Me Tell You What A Wonderful Person She Was" or "Let Me Tell You About My Disease or Operation" or "I Gave a Bum Some Money, Aren't I Incredible?" or "Why My Mother Is the Best Mother" or a personal testimony that may mean nothing to the reader.

Story Specifications
1. It is preferred that all submissions are sent via our website at www.chickensoup.com. If you don't have access to the Internet, please submit your stories preferably typed on plain white 8 1/2" x 11" paper, in 12-point Times New Roman font.
2. Please be sure to type the author's name and contact information on the first page of the story.
3. Stories should be non-fiction, ranging in length between 300-1200 words.
4. Mail your submissions in a flat, 9x12 envelope if possible.
5. No anonymous or author unknown submissions please.
6. Send only one copy of each submission.
7. We do not return submissions, so please don't send the original.


Please be patient, as this is an important, yet time-consuming process. If your story is chosen for a future edition of Chicken Soup for the SoulÒ or any other projects, you will be notified by mail and your permission to print it will be requested.
However, if your story is not chosen, you will not receive a rejection letter due to the fact that there are future books for which it will be considered.

Feel free to submit more than one story if you'd like. If you do not have a personal story of your own, but have a pre-published favorite or a story written by someone else, these stories are welcomed as well. Don't forget to include who the author is, source, etc.

Please submit your story through our website at www.chickensoup.com

Here Are Some of Our Up-Coming Titles:


Girl''s Soul II
Another collection of stories from preteen girls and others who haven''t forgotten what it''s like to be a preteen girl. No deadline date for submissions has been established.

Life Lessons on Relationships/Couples
Stories and lessons to help you reconnect with the things that are important in a relationship. No deadline date for submissions has been established. The deadline date for story submissions is August, 2006

Family Soul
Our families are so important to us. This collection of stories will cover all aspects of family life from the challenges to the humorous and silly moments. The deadline date for story submissions is September 2006

Children with Special Needs: Stories to give inspiration to all parents in their goals of helping special needs kids go from handicapped to handicapable. The deadline date for story submissions is October, 2006.

Red Hat Society
Stories about the women who belong to this unique group. These stories will make you feel good and will rekindle the warmth in your heart. The deadline date for story submissions is October 2006.

Stepfamily''s Soul
Stories to share the daily struggles, amazing triumphs and humorous moments that define the relationships of the members of the stepfamily. The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.

Nurse''s Second Shift
A second collection of stories to celebrate the rewards and challenges of the nursing profession. No deadline date for submissions has been established. The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.


Gift Pack books series
Tea Lover''s Soul
There is nothing like a wonderful cup of tea to soothe the soul. These stories will celebrate the special experiences of tea lovers. The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.
Wine Lover''s Soul
Wine lovers have very definite tastes in wine. Whether you love a red wine, a white wine or a blush wine this collection of stories will cover it all. The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.
Coffee Lover''s Soul
For a coffee lover, that first cup of coffee in the morning is what it''s all about! These stories, from and about coffee lovers will explain their passion. The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.
Chocolate Lover''s Soul
Yummy!! Need we say more? For a chocolate lover there is nothing like the taste of chocolate. This collection of stories will be delicious! The deadline date for story submissions is December 2006.
 

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Roger J Carlson said:
Thanks, Robin, for these great resources!

My pleasure!:)


God Allows U-Turns



SEND US YOUR TRUE SHORT STORY

GOD ALLOWS U-TURNS
The Choices We Make Book Series
P.O. Box 717, Faribault, MN 55021-0717
Phone/Fax (507) 334-6464
Submit stories via specific volume topic e-mail addresses as listed on web site.
Website: http://www.godallowsuturns.com
Multiple volumes in the original God Allows U-Turns® book series are now being published by Bethany House Publishers. Growing in popularity with every new volume, this is a Christian inspirational book series. Each book in the acclaimed series will contain from fifty to seventy-five uplifting, encouraging and inspirational true short stories written by contributors from all over the world. We are currently accepting true short stories for various volumes; see our web site for volume topics, specific deadlines and publisher announcements. 100% freelance. Pays $30 honorarium upon publication (plus 1 copy of book). By-line and short bio. Send complete manuscript with full contact information. We will respond only if your story is selected for submission. Accepts simultaneous submissions & reprints (tell when/where appeared). Prefers MS WORD attachments via specific volume topic e-mail addresses. Sample stories appear on web site. Read a current volume in the series to understand our needs and story format - this is imperative. Thoroughly review web site if possible.
SPECIAL NEEDS

Open to well written, personal inspirational pieces showing how faith in God can inspire, encourage and heal. Hope should prevail. We want human-interest stories with a spiritual application, affirming ways in which faith is expressed in daily life. When possible, show how the choice you made, either through a change of heart, attitude, thought, and/or behavior occurred that clearly describes moving closer toward God. Using a "u-turn" lesson/analogy within the story is a plus. "The choices we make change the story of our life," tell us how your choices have changed your life. These true stories MUST touch the emotions. Our contributors are a diverse group with no limits on age or denomination.
TIPS

Read a current volume, or see the sample story on our web site. Keep it real. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things with God's help. We publish the nitty-gritty issues of life - few subjects are taboo. Focus on timeless, universal themes like love, forgiveness, salvation, healing, hope, faith, etc. Be able to tell a good story with drama, description and dialogue. "Show" us, don't "tell" us. Avoid moralisms and preachy tones. The point of the story should be some practical spiritual help the reader receives from what the author learned through his experience. Remember our "choosing a u-turn toward God" theme. Again, we encourage you to read a volume before submitting.
DEADLINES

Deadlines vary and are open for future volumes, see our "Future Volumes" page on our website for specific niche titles and various deadlines. www.godallowsuturns.com.
NOTE

We gladly accept multiple submissions. Please, send each story individually when submitting via email. Include your contact information with each story.
This book series is DIFFERENT from the God Answers Prayers book series published by Harvest House. We are currently NOT accepting stories in the God Answers Prayers series.
STORY FORMAT

Submissions must be from 500-1,500 words. No formatting needed if sent via web site or in the text body of an email.If submitting via an MS WORD ATTACHMENT send your story double-spaced, one-inch margins, and 12-point "Times" font - please, no fancy formatting with bold text or oversize headers. If submitting via snail mail, you must send your story on a PC formatted disk or CD, typed, double-spaced, one-inch margins, and 12 point "Times" font.
Sorry, but we cannot accept handwritten nor old-fashioned typed stories.
RIGHTS

One time non-exclusive rights. Reprint rights. We will reserve full editorial rights, including possible title changes. You will be sent a Permissions Form (contract) in the event your story is chosen for publication. This form must be signed and returned promptly. No returns - if your story is not selected, your story will not be returned - always keep a copy for your files.
TIMELINE

Due to the volume of material we are now receiving, we truly regret that we can no longer respond personally to every contributor. However, you can rest assured you will be contacted in the event your submission is selected for publication.
Feel free to submit your story elsewhere during this review process. In the event your work is chosen for inclusion in a future volume, you will be notified by phone or mail to see if your story is still available for our use.
SNAIL MAIL SUBMISSIONS

We no longer accept snail mail submissions
CONTACT INFORMATION TO INCLUDE WITH YOUR STORY

First and Last Name - Day and Evening Telephone & FAX
Mailing Address/City/State/Zip and Country
E-Mail Address
FUTURE VOLUMES

Visit web site for detailed future volume topics and current specific deadlines. Future volume themes will be God Allows U-Turns for: Couples, Men, Moms, Families, Seniors, Teachers, Children, Financial Issues, Holiday Treasures, Weight and Self Esteem, Medical Miracles, Career Changes, etc. Identify theme topic in your submission.
TWO WAYS TO SUBMIT YOUR STORY

  1. Via our Website at http://godallowsuturns.com/submitstory.htm (submit story directly from the site)
  2. #2. Via email (as an MS WORD attachment) at submit2uturns@godallowsuturn
 

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I've been asked privately so let me clarify-- I am not connected with Chicken Soup or any other market I post about. I just get lots of info and want to share it. ;)

Chicken Soup for the Soul is looking for funny, inspirational and heartfelt stories for our newest upcoming title, "Chicken Soup for the Beach Lover''s Soul."

Tentative chapter headings include:
Under the Boardwalk-This is our chapter on love & learning to love, companionship, friendship, etc.

Day at the Beach- Memories or Insights and lessons

Surf's up
Fun, fun, fun (see the Beach Boy's on this one)

Playing on the Beach
Volleyball, sand castles, kite surfing, etc.

Beach Parties

Sunrise/Sunset

Creating Special Moments

We''re looking for inspirational, true stories (1,000 words or less) that will make readers laugh, cry or sigh. Stories should be positive, universal and non-controversial. The "point" or "message" should be evident without preaching. No essays, commentaries, tributes, philosophical or biographical pieces will be accepted.

For additional story guidelines, please visit our website at www.chickensoup.com.

You may submit more than one story and we accept previously published pieces. For each story selected in the book, a 50-word biography will be included about the author and a permission fee of $200 per story will be paid if your story is selected.

The submission deadline is October 1, 2006.

Please submit stories through the Chicken Soup for the Soul website at www.chickensoup.com. Be sure to select "Beach Lover" as the book title.

We look forward to reading your story!

Jack Canfield Mark Victor Hansen Patty Aubery
 

Robin Bayne

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Not necessarily Christian but looks interesting!

Production Company Seeking Feature Scripts



Feel free to forward. As always, you should only submit WGA Registered or Copyright Registered material.

Jeffrey R. Gund
INFOLIST.com
Jeffrey R. Gund Music & Sound Design
www.myspace. com/JeffGund
If you like the InfoList - Add a Comment on my Myspace page and let me know what you like about it!
____________ _________ _________

PRODUCTION COMPANY SEEKING SCRIPTS

Broken Halo Productions, an Independent feature production company is looking for projects for an award-winning director. Company will produce 3 high-concept, low-budget films with high production value over three years with a focus on international distribution as well as domestic.

We are looking for strong, character or concept driven horror, psychological thriller or suspense scripts with approximate budgets between $500K and $2 million. We are primarily looking for strong material that can be shot for a low budget, but have a big budget feel (ie Amityville Horror, When a Stranger Calls, etc).

Please, no comedy or drama scripts or scripts featuring high-cost special fx, etc.

TO SUBMIT:
Be sure to mention you heard about this from Jeff Gund at INFOLIST.com, and please email your loglines, script synopses as well as a writer's bio to:
rcurrelley@gmail. com

If approved, you will be sent a standard release form and an address to which to send the script and release form. Preference will be given to scripts or writers that have won awards or contests, but this is not mandatory.

__
 
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Spiritually Uplifting Screenplay Contest

Announcing the 2nd Annual $50,000 John Templeton Foundation Kairos Prize for Spiritually Uplifting Screenplays.

MOVIEGUIDE and the John Templeton Foundation have announced the 2nd Annual John Templeton Foundation Kairos Prize for Spiritually Uplifting Screenplays with prizes totally $50,000. The primary purpose of the prize is to further the influence of moral and spiritual values within the film and television industries. The prize will help inspire first-time screenwriters to produce compelling, entertaining, spiritually uplifting scripts.

Deadline for entries are:

November 3, 2006 [Early]
December 15, 2006 [Late]

All deadlines are postmark deadlines.

For more information on the prize - please visit: www.kairosprize.com

Please feel free to forward this to colleagues.

Blessings,

Tori McPetrie
John Templeton Foundation Kairos Prize
[email protected]
www.kairosprize.com
 

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By Grace Publishing

www.bygracepublishing.com


Thank you for your interest in our company. If you are a writer with the desire to publish your Christian or tender romance, we would be happy to look at your work. We are also accepting Chick-lit, however we prefer Christian Chick-lit. Secular, but "chaste" Chick-Lit will also be acceptable.
We are a royalty paying publisher. Regrettably, we cannot pay an advance, but we do pay 50% of the net earnings to our authors.

We will provide you with cover art, and promotions. You will be expected to help promote your work.



Our Current Needs
As of June 13, 2006
Short stories (5,000 to 15,000 words) and novellas (20,000 to 25,000 words) for the Short and Sweet line up. Submit the full manuscript with your query. Historical or Contemporary welcome.
Inspirational Romance of all lengths.
Larger sized heroines welcomed.
Romantic Comedy
Chick-Lit
Romantic Suspense
Wedding centered novellas for the June Brides Anthology.
Christmas themed novels, novellas or short stories.*
*Christmas is a priority at this time. Submit TODAY! Tender or Inspirational.
What we do not want:


Stories that anthropomorphize God, or His angels.
Foul language. If you are unsure, be safe, and do not use the word.
Heroes that do not respect women. This includes stories in which the hero is redeemed.
Graphic violence.
Incomplete manuscripts. We have been known to request a full from a partial in one week.
Divorce that is not for Biblical reasons.
E-books will be published in PDF, LIT, and HTML formats on this site. Other electronic formats will be available through Fictionwise. Print on demand services will be outsourced. If 200 copies of your book are sold, it will go into general distribution. General distribution makes your book available through Amazon and Barnes and Noble, as well as available to any bookstore.

New submitters are strongly urged to read our tips page, and our sample query. You might also consider visiting author Mary Claymore's site for writing articles.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Guidelines

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

There are three main categories; Inspirational, Tender (secular,) and Chick-lit (Women's Fiction with a fun twist.) Our guidelines are simple:

Sexual tension should be kept to a minimum.
No doctrinal issues should be covered in your story.
No violence of any sort, unless it is integral to the story.
In Inspirational Romances, Christian characters, though not perfect, should not engage in alcohol consumption or cigarette smoking. Secondary non-Christian characters may engage in these activities, but they should not be viewed as positive.
Contemporary or Historical Romances will be considered. If you are submitting Historical Romance, include the period in your query.
Point of view can be first or third person, but only from the hero or heroine.
Sub-genres like mystery, suspense and comedy are encouraged. We want a mix of styles and stories.
No simultaneous submissions, please. If you want to submit to this company, do not submit the same story elsewhere.
Word counts and imprints are listed below. Word count is figured as 250 words per page for 25 lines per page in Courier New 12 pt. Please submit your query, first three chapters and brief synopsis by email ([email protected]). You may attach RTF files only. Your query should include the word count and category you wish to submit to. Please do not submit unfinished manuscripts. The subject of your email should be "BGP Query: The Title of Your Manuscript." Read our sample query for an example.
 

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Gravity said:
The Sobol contest is being discussed on the Bewares and Background Check header. It seems (seems being the operative word) to have some problems.

Just sayin'...

I see what you mean, and to be honest, I didn't even notice the $85 entry free (found the info on the ACFW's loop). Yikes!
Deleted my post. Thanks!
 
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