Description
Larrikin House Prize 2026
Theme: Own Voices
Congratulations to our 2025 winner Seetha Dodd whose winning manuscript Tallulah Pterodactyl was signed! Her picture book with be released in 2027.
Who do we want to work with?
We want Australian authors who can write Own Voice stories told in an original way. We want kids to be able to see themselves in new and refreshing ways while challenging stereotypes, pushing boundaries and engaging young readers through humour.
What Are We Looking For In A Manuscript?
We are seeking picture books, middle grade, YA and adult fiction manuscripts that are fun, fearless and feminist.
About the Larrikin House Prize
We support Australian authors and will continue to do this through Pitch Parties, On Demand Workshops, submissions, Mentorship Programs and opportunities for creatives to showcase their work.
We want to publish manuscripts that help kids see themselves positively, so they can be proud of who they are and/or better understand those around them.
Your story must be an own voice story.
What are we looking for in a manuscript?
- Own Voice stories
- Loveable characters
- Humour
- A great hook
- Quirky, humorous stories that will appeal to educators
- Commercial
- Not didactic
- Engaging and unique storytelling
- Kids need to see themselves
Examples of the vibe we are looking for:
- My Shadow is Pink series
- My SUPERCHARGED ADHD Brain
- My SPINNING Anxious Brain
- The Fast Lane
- Otto's INKredible First Day of School
- Archie Can't Sit Still
- The Witch Who Couldn't Spell
- Starfish Can't Ride Bikes
The winner will receive the following
- 12 month Mentorship Program with the Publisher
- A Zoom chat about the industry with James Layton and Dani Vee
- Possibility of publication if the manuscript is suitable. The prize does not include a guarantee of publication.
Submission Guidelines
- All manuscripts are to be emailed, along with your order number to submissions@larrikinhouse.com. Submissions emailed to any other address will not be accepted.
- We are accepting picture books (up to 500 words) and all other mansucripts (first 1000 words).
- Please send a word document or PDF with your name and contact details, and the story. We don’t need anything else at this stage. No illustrations should be included.
- Text should be double-spaced, in 12 pt font.
- The author must live in Australia or be an Australian resident.
- The work must not be generated by AI.
- Entry fee $25 per manuscript.
- Only entries that follow the submission guidelines will be accepted.
Timeline
- Prize Opens: Now
- Submissions Close: 1 September 2026
- Shortlist announced: 30 September 2026
- Winner Announced: 15 October 2026
Please email your manuscript to submissions@larrikinhouse.com
(Limit 1000 words)