Submissions closed
We're looking for stories that leave a mark. That hit fast and leave you a little sore after. Submissions for this round have now closed — thank you to everyone who entered.
Contest details
Word count
1000 words*
Entry fee
Free to enter
Open to
All writers, English speaking
Genres
Any — no restrictions
Status
Submissions closed
Submissions closed
15th July, 2026
Prizes
Hall of fame
Submission guidelines for The Coop
Word count: *Your story should be under 1000 words but take a few more if you need them.
Format: Paste your story directly into the submission form. Use plain text only.
Originality: Work must be your own, previously unpublished, and not under consideration elsewhere. No AI generated content.
Limit per person: One submission per author. Please see FAQ for more thoughts on this.
Rights: Authors retain full copyright. We ask for first publication rights for winning entries only.
Questions? Reach us at hello@chickenblue.com
Enter the contest
Thanks to everyone who sent in a story this round — submissions are now closed and the judging is underway. The winner will be announced on the 1st of next month. Follow along on Instagram or Substack so you don't miss it, and keep an eye out for when the next round opens.
We'll be back next month — see you then.
From the editors
About the organizer
Chickenblue believes there are many great writers in the world who are not published — and plenty of published fiction that frankly should never have made it that far.
The ambition is to build a credible space for new voices where they can get their first leg up. Winners are chosen on the strength of their work, not the size of their social media following.
Questions? Reach us at hello@chickenblue.com
FAQ
No — if it's been publicly posted, it doesn't qualify. Although to be honest there's not enough bandwidth to check every entry. I'm not even sure where I'd start. I might google the winner if I remember.
One entry per person per competition. This competition runs monthly so you can post another story next time.
Yes. If you opt in for our drumstick rating you'll recieve some feedback from our judge before the winner is announced. One drumstick = Needs more work. Two drumsticks = You're on to something. Three drumsticks = Well done sir or madam.
Winners will be announced on the 1st of the following month via our Instagram page.