The winners of CWA’s 4th Annual First Chapter Contest announced
A snowy day in a Minnesota farm town. A chase ensues through the eyes of alternating characters. This sets the stage for secrets to be exposed for the winner of the Chicago Writers Association’s 4th Annual First Chapter Contest. Bill Mathis’ opening chapter to “Revenge is Necessary” captured first place. William will be awarded a full scholarship to attend the Novel-In-Progress Bookcamp & Writing Retreat May 17 to 23, 2020, at the Cedar Valley Center & Spa, 35 miles northwest of Milwaukee, near West Bend, Wisconsin (value: $1385). The second-place cash award of $150 goes to Caroline Mansour’s “Revisionist History.” Third place and a cash award of $75 goes to Brandi McGee for the opening chapter of “Black Girls Don’t Commit Suicide.” Members of CWA’s Board of Directors selected the prize winners, which will be published in CWA’s e-zine, The Write City, from more than 50 entries. Judging was based on merits that should be found in a first chapter, including a good opening hook, strong characterizations, compelling voice, conflict, dialogue, and no grammar/mechanical errors. Thank you to all of those who entered. The field of entries was highly competitive. The judges were all impressed by the quality of this year’s entries.
