Shutterstock / Twin Design©If one of your New Year Resolutions this year was to try writing your first story for the “Friend”, here are some pointers on getting started.
Think About Our Reader
If you’re thinking about writing for us, the first and most important thing to remember is that our readers are at the heart of everything we do.
When we’re reading story submissions, the main thing in our minds is – will this story appeal to the reader?
Reading the magazine regularly is the best way to gauge the type of content we’re looking for.
Your Story Is Part Of A Mix
Every story we buy has to be a strong story in itself, and a good read.
It also has to fit in with six other stories in the weekly issue, and 19 other stories in the Special!
So we’re looking for a mix of stories with a range of themes, tones and genres.
Word Counts
The word counts that we use most of are 2000 and 3000 words, which are suitable for use any time.
We’re always on the lookout for stories that fit story lengths for our Special – 1500, 2500, 3500 and 4000.
And we’re happy to look at 1200 word stories again, having worked our way through the backlog.
How Your Story Will Make The Reader Feel?
Whether it’s empathy or joy, sadness or the feeling of being uplifted, our reader should feel a connection with your story and its characters.
Readers should also feel better for having read your story.
Strong Stories Welcome
Strong stories are welcome.
Our readers enjoy moving and touching stories, as long as the storyline itself is not depressing, and the story has a feel-good resolution.
Practical Bits And Pieces
Submit stories six months in advance. Make sure to include your details. And check our guidelines before submitting.
Best of luck!
Lucy Crichton Better known as “Fiction Editor Lucy”, I am always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, I enjoy working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of “Friend” fiction!
