Meet Our Expert Judging Panel
We're delighted that five celebrated children's writers have kindly agreed to pick the winning stories in this year's competition. We'll be sending them the Top 50 shortlisted stories in late April, before they meet up in May to decide on their favourites in each age group!
Dame Jacqueline Wilson, author of Tracy Beaker
"I'm delighted to be a judge for the 500 WORDS competition once again. It's exciting that so many children are keen writers and it's great that this competition encourages them. I'd have entered like a shot when I was a child - though I'm not sure I'd have been shortlisted, as the standard is so high. Last year's judging meeting proved to be very entertaining and enjoyable, so I have high hopes of our meeting in May this year."
Watch Dame Jacqueline's expert writing tips
Charlie Higson, author of the Young Bond series
"As a judge I will be in great company, some of Britain's greatest children's writers have been involved in this project and I'm honoured to be a part of it. Plus I get to read all these fantastic stories. I'm here for the blood and thunder! I love stories with lots of action and adventure and excitement. I want fantasy and big explosions. I'm not looking for the polite stuff, I'll leave that to the other judges. Come on kids, sock it to me."
Watch Charlie's expert writing tips
Lauren Child, author of Charlie and Lola
"Writing a story in 500 words is not an easy thing to do, but having heard some of last year's entries I have high hopes for this year and am very excited to be involved. It's important to encourage young people to have a voice and to value what they have to say. I am looking for originality, personality and writing from the heart. It's important to encourage young people to have a voice and to value what they have to say."
Watch Lauren's expert writing tips
Andy Stanton, author of Mr. Gum
"Am I excited to be a 500 Words judge? RADIATOR! I mean, 'YES!' See, I'm so excited I can't even speak properly. Stories are magical things but there's no secret formula for writing them - anyone can do it. I hope the competition will inspire thousands of young authors to get involved, even if they've never written a story before. And I can't wait to read all the entries. LOFT CONVERSION! I mean, 'GOOD LUCK!'
Watch Andy's expert writing tips
David Walliams, author of Billionaire Boy
"I loved being a 500 WORDS judge last year. I cannot wait to return this year, as Head Judge no less. I'm not sure what that means yet - probably that I have to make the tea? It was a joy to submerge myself in last year's stories. Each one brought me to a different world, each as wonderfully created as the next. This year we're looking for more original stories from UK children, so get those imaginations going."
Watch David's expert writing tips
Links You Will Love
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Hay Fever
Find out more about Hay Festival's family events.
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Chris: Books and Me
Read Chris' article for telegraph.co.uk about his love for literature.
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The 4 O'Clock Show
Join Mel on Radio 4 Extra for stories, comedy and quizzes.
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Newsround
The BBC's home of news and fun facts for kids.
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National Literacy Trust
Support for those who struggle with literacy.
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World Book Day
The biggest celebration of books and reading in the world!
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Free Learning Resources
Discover the wonderful world of words.
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Make Time to Read
Literacy initiative from the Welsh Government.
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Booktrust
The charity that aims to inspire everyone to enjoy books.
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BBC Bitesize
Improve your writing skills with these Key Stage 2 lessons.
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500 WORDS 2011
Read the Top 50 stories entered in last year's competition.
