Short story contest honors Nebraska author Aldrich

    To honor Nebraska author Bess Streeter Aldrich and recognize outstanding writing, the Bess Streeter Aldrich Foundation announces its 2023 Short Story Contest, which is celebrating its 21st  year.
     Authors are encouraged to generate a fictional short story that is written in the wholesome spirit displayed by Aldrich in her works while incorporating a theme that focuses on Nebraska’s economy, history, cultural diversity and/or geography (past, present and/or future).
    Story length should be 1,000-2,000 words (there is no minimum word requirement for the intermediate category). A list of books by the author which entrants can read to become familiar with Aldrich’s work is available on the Foundation’s website, www.bessstreeteraldrich.org.
    Examples include Aldrich’s best-selling novel “A Lantern in Her Hand,” “The Lieutenant’s Lady (the featured book in 2023) or a collection of short stories.  
     Contest organizers said essays are not part of the contest.
    Prizes will be awarded at an annual event held the second Sunday in June.
    Adults prizes are: 1st place, $100; 2nd place, $50; 3rd place, $25. High school (grades 9-12), middle school (grades 6-8) and intermediate school (grades 3-5) awards include 1st place, $50; 2nd place, $25; and 3rd place, $15.
    Family members of the Bess Streeter Aldrich Foundation board members are not eligible.
    Any individual who submits a short story may participate in a free tour during 2023. Aldrich House guides will be able to confirm participation upon arrival at the Aldrich House.
    Submissions are due April 15, 2023. A submission link and a complete list of rules can be found at www.bessstreeteraldrich.org.
    Questions about the contest can be directed to Kurk Shrader, Executive Director at aldrichfoundation@gmail.com, or call 402-994-3855.