The Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards recognizes excellence in storytelling across various genres. We value not only the written content but also the overall presentation that grabs a reader's attention.
Thank you for your interest in judging the Grand Masquerade of Writing Awards! To ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation, we consider several criteria beyond just the manuscript itself. Here's a detailed breakdown of what our judges will be looking for:
➟ Book Cover Design [ 05 marks]: While not the sole indicator of quality, a professional and visually appealing cover design can create a positive first impression and reflect the genre and tone of the story.
➟ Title[05 marks]: Is the title catchy, memorable, and relevant to the story's content? Does it spark interest and accurately represent the book's themes?
➟Blurb Relevance[10 marks]: Does the blurb accurately portray the story's key elements and themes? Does it entice the reader without giving away spoilers? Is it well-written and free of grammatical errors?
➟Plot & Narrative Structure (20 marks): This is the foundation of your story. Judges will evaluate the plot's strength, considering:
•Engagement: Does the plot hook the reader from the start and keep them turning pages? Are there clear stakes and rising tension?
•Structure: Does the story flow smoothly with a well-defined beginning & end? Does it utilize appropriate narrative techniques to build suspense and emotional impact.
➟ Characterization (15 marks): Characters are the heart of the story. Judges will assess:
•Depth & Believability: Are the characters well-rounded individuals with unique personalities, motivations, and flaws?
•Development: Do the characters grow and change throughout the story? Is there a clear character arc for the protagonist?
•Dialogue: Does the dialogue feel natural and reveal character personalities effectively?
➟ Writing Mechanics (20 marks): The quality of writing elevates the story. Judges will look for:
•Clarity & Conciseness: Is the writing clear and easy to understand? Does it avoid unnecessary exposition and get to the point?
•Grammar & Mechanics: Is the writing free from grammatical errors, typos, and punctuation mistakes?
•Writing Style & Voice: Does the author have a distinctive voice that pulls the reader into the story? Is the vocabulary rich and varied?
➟ Content & Originality (15 marks):
•Genre Adherence: - Does the story follow the established conventions and tropes of its chosen genre?
Does it deliver the elements readers expect for a satisfying experience within that genre?For example, does a fantasy novel have a well-defined magic system, and does a thriller build towards a heart-pounding climax?
•Originality: - Does the story offer a fresh perspective or unique voice within its genre?
Does it present innovative ideas, a captivating twist on a familiar theme, or a thought-provoking exploration of social issues?Does the story stand out from the crowd with its ingenuity and creativity?
➟ Overall Impression (10 marks): Can be awarded based on personal enjoyment from a reader's POV.
TOTAL SCORE: --/ 100
𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤:
As a judge, you'll be encouraged to provide constructive feedback using the evaluation form. This invaluable input will empower authors to refine their craft and reach new heights in their writing journey.
By wielding your expertise and literary acumen, you'll play a pivotal role in uncovering the most captivating stories within the Grand Masquerade. Hop in for a remarkable experience!