Guardian Unlimited and Bebo join up on writing competition

by Alex Donohue, Brand Republic 22-Feb-07, 15:15

LONDON - Guardian Unlimited and social networking website Bebo are to run a writing competition to coincide with the launch of Russian-born 'Night Watch' author Ziv Navoth's latest novel, 'Nanotales' and of Bebo's Authors feature.

The competition invites readers to submit a story of fewer than one thousand words, dubbed a nanotale, on any subject via the Bebo, Guardian Unlimited, and Nanotales websites.

It will be judged by the public and a panel featuring Navoth and Alan Yentob, creative director at the BBC, and Joanna Shields, president of Bebo International.

The most popular entries will be published next year as part of an anthology of nanotales that will be published by Ziji Books, with the winners to be announced on April 16 at London Book Fair.

The competition also coincides with the launch of Bebo Authors, an online platform where users can upload video clips, writing tips and comment on their favourite books.

Franc Roddam, founder of Ziji Publishing and director of 'Quadraphonic', said: "'Nanotales' is a bold attempt to bridge the gap between the traditional and electronic delivery of literature.

"In this fast-paced world of digital media, there is a danger that a whole generation might think that traditional forms of literature are not for them."

The panel for the competition comprises: Alan Yentob, creative director at the BBC; Caroline Michel, managing director of William Morris agency; Ziv Navoth, author of 'Nanotales'; Franc Roddam, film director and founder of Ziji Publishing; Sarah Crown, literary editor of Guardian Unlimited and Joanna Shields, president of Bebo International.

The closing date for competition entries is March 16.