Dreda Say Mitchell is a judge for Discoveries 2025, the Women’s Prize Trust’s writer development programme and prize, run in partnership with Audible, Curtis Brown literary agency and Curtis Brown Creative writing school.
How have programmes such as Discoveries aided in your own career as a writer?
Maggie Hamand’s mentorship was pivotal in launching my writing career. I joined her Complete Creative Writing Course to jumpstart my writing, but her influence extended far beyond that. Recognising my potential, Maggie invited me to be one of the first authors for her newly established publishing house, MAIA Press. At the time, the traditional publishing world was not readily accessible to a Black woman who had grown up on a housing estate in London’s East End. Maggie and Jane Havell, her co-director, provided crucial mentorship, nurturing both my talent and confidence. They offered guidance on developing my writing style, navigating the publishing industry and believing in my unique voice. Their support culminated in the publication of my debut novel, which went on to win the John Creasey Dagger – a first for a Black British author. This achievement and their belief in me not only validated my work but also opened doors that were previously closed to me.
What are your top tips for getting your manuscript ready for Discoveries?
1. Set aside quality time
Block ‘getting my manuscript ready’ time in your schedule/diary. Treat these times as non-negotiable appointments with yourself and your manuscript.
2. Write as YOU!
Don’t write like anyone else because what will make you shine is your uniqueness. Embrace your personal style, experiences and perspectives. They are what will make your voice distinct.
3. Hear your story
Record yourself reading your manuscript aloud. Then listen to it. Issues begin to jump out that you don’t necessarily catch by only reading through.
4. Get a trusted person to read it
Choose a reader who will be both supportive but also able to highlight crucial areas for development. Ensure that this is a person who believes in you and your writing.
As a judge for this year’s Prize, what kind of stories/expression do you want to see?
I’m looking for stories that engage my emotions. Make me feel. I want to feel the characters, their stories, the settings, the world. Voice is also important to me. A unique author voice that feels genuine and personally insightful with a distinctive style that sets it apart from others. Voices that make me sit up and pay attention, offering new ways to view the world.
As a Black woman and writer, what was the best advice you've been given?
The best advice I was given was to always see myself first and foremost as a writer. It liberated me from the sometimes stereotypical expectation that, as a Black woman, I should only write about ‘race’, oppression, struggle and suffering. While these are undoubtedly important issues, they aren’t the sum total of my experiences or interests.
I write as a unique individual with a wealth of experiences and ideas to share. Creating stories that resonate on a universal level while still being true to who I am.
I am a writer who is also a black woman.
Submissions are open from now until 13 January 2025. To enter and find out more information, visit www.womensprize.com/discoveries
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