Writing and authors

Tell the next part of your story. Apply to our writing programmes for targeted support, discover the magic of an author visit or delve into inspirational writing tips, publishing advice and competitions.

50 Word Fiction
Can you write a story in just 50 words?
The Scottish novels we're looking forward to in 2021
Our pick of this year's new releases
"Find your writing community and hold on tight"
Sheila M Averbuch on the importance of a writing group
Announcing our Ignite Fellows 2021
The Ignite Fellowship supports established writers to produce new work

Author events and visits

Discover how Scottish Book Trust can help you host an author event, get on our author directory or find an author.

Legal guidance for sharing books and stories online
How to safely share books and stories online during lockdown
Statement: online events and author fees
We believe authors should be paid for their work, including for digital events.
View the Author Directory
Find writers, playwrights, poets, storytellers and illustrators who are available for events across Scotland
Live Literature
Live Literature helps fund and support author events in communities all over the country
Authors Live
A series of world class children’s author and illustrator events brought directly to your classroom, library or home for free
Scottish Friendly Children's Book Tour
Bringing authors and illustrators to libraries, town halls and schools
Live Literature School Residencies
Work with professional writers, storytellers and creators from our Live Literature directory

Resources for writers

From writing your first story to finding a local writers group or getting advice on submitting to a publisher, we've got you covered.

View all resources for writers

Resources for writers and freelancers during Coronavirus
Practical resources and support for those affected
Ideas for remote author events
Fresh ideas for running an author event during lockdown
Online writing workshops
Find opportunities to share and improve your work remotely
How to run an online workshop
Advice for facilitating an online workshop, including safeguarding and privacy
Opportunities for writers
Competitions and calls for submissions for Scottish writers
Writing retreats, workshops, classes and funding
Find the perfect opportunity to spend time on your writing
Writing groups in Scotland

Our writing awards and fellowships

Looking for ways to take your writing career to the next step? Find out more about our annual awards and fellowships.

View our awards and fellowships

Meet our Ignite Fellows 2021
The Ignite Fellowship offers tailored practical and financial support to professional authors
New Writers Awards
An annual award supporting emerging writers to develop their craft
Next Chapter Award
An annual award supporting an emerging writer over the age of 40
Callan Gordon Award
This award has been set up to celebrate the life of Callan Gordon, a young Scottish writer
The Robert Louis Stevenson Fellowship
An annual award offering professional writers a month-long writing retreat
What's Your Story?
Supporting Scotland’s young writers and illustrators
Comhaltachd Robert Louis Stevenson
Duais bhliadhnail a tha a’ tabhann ratreut fad mhìos do sgrìobhadairean proifeiseanta
Industry Labs: Practical workshops for writers
Workshops to hone skills and gain new insights into the business of writing

Author events and visits

Resources for writers

Our writing awards and fellowships

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