by Brenda Scott Royce

“There’s nothing quite like sitting on the edge of your seat at the SCBWI-L.A. Writer’s Day, holding your breath as the winners of the contest are announced,” says author-artist Rilla Jaggia. “I’d done this before, never expecting to hear my name. But in March 2024, as the judge’s description was read, I knew the winning YA manuscript was mine. And there it was, the title of my work and my name on the giant screen. Surreal!”

As a previous winner myself (and our region’s Contest Coordinator), I can echo Rilla’s sentiments. The thrill is real, and to me, the morale boost that comes with winning (or placing) in any contest is more precious than the tangible prizes. Just entering can be a reward in itself, providing the motivation you need to polish your manuscript and send it out into the world.

So, I’m happy to announce that the contest is back! After a year’s hiatus, SCBWI-L.A. is hosting Writers & Illustrators Day in May 2026. And this year we are offering TWO contests: 1) The writers contest we’ve come to know and love, and 2) a brand new competition for illustrators.