ATTORNEY-REVIEW DRAFT
Young Voices working rules.
These rules explain the planned contest framework. The contest is not open until Timberline publishes the official opening date, deadline, complete eligibility terms, and final attorney-reviewed rules.
Who may enter
Young writers in North Carolina in the announced age divisions may participate through an account created and controlled by a parent or legal guardian. Final residence, age, and deadline requirements will appear in the official rules.
What may be submitted
Original short stories, poems, essays, novellas, and book excerpts may be considered. The guardian must confirm that the young writer created the work and controls the rights required for judging and any separately approved publication.
Cost and ownership
There is no entry fee. The writer retains copyright. Submission does not transfer ownership to Timberline Hollow. Publication, audio, photography, promotion, and Bookshop permissions are separate guardian choices.
Judging
Entries are reviewed for originality, craft, voice, emotional or intellectual impact, and completeness. Blind-reading tools conceal guardian contact details while judges score the work. Timberline may disqualify plagiarism, fraud, ineligible entries, unsafe material, or attempts to manipulate judging.
Planned prize package
The announced package is planned to include a $100 gift card, engraved trophy, certificate, creative gift package, magazine recognition, and—when separately approved—a Bookshop listing with no Timberline royalty retained from the winner’s work. Exact prize value, availability, taxes, delivery, and substitution terms will be finalized before opening.
Privacy and safety
No school, home address, private phone number, exact birthdate, or personal email belonging to a minor is requested for public display. Guardian contact information and manuscripts remain private. Timberline prohibits adult-to-youth private messaging and reports suspected predatory or unlawful conduct when appropriate.
Before submitting
A guardian should read the official rules, Privacy Policy, Youth Safety Rules, and publication permissions together. A workflow test made before the official opening is not an official contest entry.