FAQs
We’ve gathered answers to the most common questions about entering the Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure Literary Prize. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please get in touch — we’d love to help.
Jump to:
→ About the Prize
→ Eligibility & Entries
→ How to Enter
→ Judging & Prizes
→ Supporting the Prize
About the Prize
What is the Tom Grass Spirit of Adventure Literary Prize?
The Prize celebrates creative storytelling that captures the spirit of adventure — whether physical, emotional, or imaginative.
It was founded by the friends and family of writer and traveller Tom Grass, whose curiosity and courage continue to inspire this annual award.
Who was Tom Grass?
Tom Grass was a storyteller and maverick who travelled widely and wrote in many forms.
His novel Twist was adapted into a film starring Michael Caine, and he co-founded Pure Grass Films and Grass & Co.
The Prize keeps alive his adventurous and generous spirit.
Who runs the Prize?
The Tom Grass Prize is a not-for-profit foundation, created and run by friends and family of Tom Grass.
It is sponsored by Steppes Travel, whose philosophy of meaningful exploration mirrors the Prize’s values.
Eligibility & Entries
Who can enter?
Writers aged 25 and over, from anywhere in the world, writing in English.
Entrants must not be represented by a Literary Agent and must not have any previous or new book under contract with a mainstream publisher for the duration of the prize.
What kind of writing are you looking for?
Short, stand-alone pieces of prose — fiction or non-fiction — between 1,500 and 3,000 words.
We welcome stories, essays, memoirs, reportage, or other hybrid forms that reflect the spirit of adventure in subject, tone, or style.
Does it have to be about travel?
No. Adventure might mean crossing oceans, but it might also mean a quiet act of bravery or a leap of imagination.
Can I enter if I’ve been published before?
Entrants will not be eligible if they have a previous or new book under contract with a mainstream publisher, but are eligible if they have a book self-published or by an academic or specialist publisher. Articles or short pieces published elsewhere do not affect eligibility.
Can I use AI tools to write my entry?
No. All entries must be written entirely by the author. AI-generated or AI-assisted text is not permitted.
How to Enter
When can I submit my entry?
Entries open 1 November 2025 and close 31 March 2026.
Is there an entry fee?
Entries submitted before 28 February 2026 are free.
A £15 fee applies to submissions made between 1 and 31 March 2026.
How do I submit?
Submit online at tomgrassprize.com by uploading your entry and completing the short form.
You’ll receive an on-screen confirmation once your submission is received.
Can I submit more than one piece?
At present, each entrant may submit one entry.
Judging & Prizes
How are entries judged?
All eligible entries are read blind by a group of volunteer readers.
A longlist is agreed collectively and passed to the final judging panel, chaired by literary agent Laetitia Rutherford and including leading figures from publishing, travel and the arts.
What are the prizes?
First Prize: £1,000
Two Runners-up: £500 each
Shortlisted works will be featured on the website and celebrated at the Awards Reception in London on 11 June 2026.
Will I keep the copyright to my work?
Yes. Authors retain full copyright. By entering, you grant permission for the Prize to publish your piece on its website if shortlisted or winning.
Supporting the Prize
Which charities does the Prize support?
Each year, the Prize raises funds for the Charlie Waller Trust and The Enaikishomi School and Community Project— causes close to Tom’s heart, focusing on mental health, literacy, and education.
Can I help or volunteer?
Yes — we welcome volunteer readers and support from those who share our ethos.
Contact us at info@tomgrassprize.com.
How can I stay in touch?
Sign up for updates about entries, shortlists, and events at tomgrassprize.com or follow us on Instagram @tom.grass.prize.
Still have a question?
We’d love to help.
Email info@tomgrassprize.com or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.
