Question 1

What is the "Once Upon In Our Minds" international story writing competition?

Accepted Answer

The "Once Upon In Our Minds" competition is an international story writing contest designed to encourage creativity and storytelling among children aged 5 to 16 years. Participants have the chance to showcase their writing talents and get their stories published in an anthology.

Question 2

Can children from any country participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Entries are accepted globally from children aged 5–16 from all regions.

Question 3

Who can participate?

Accepted Answer

Children aged 5 to 16 years from around the world are eligible to participate in the competition. There are different categories based on age groups to ensure fair competition.

Question 4

How do I enter the competition?

Accepted Answer

To enter, visit our official website, fill out the registration form, and submit your story following the guidelines provided. Entries will be accepted from August 15th.

Question 5

What are the age categories?

Accepted Answer

Participants are divided into the following age groups:
5      to 8 years
9      to 12 years
13      to 16 years

Question 6

Is there a theme for the competition?

Accepted Answer

No, there are no specific themes for the competition. We encourage children to freely express their creativity and write stories in any genre or theme that inspires them. This allows participants to explore their imaginations without any limitations.

Question 7

What are the submission guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Plagiarized stories will be disqualified.

Word Count: Depending on the age group, the word limit varies:
5 to 8 years: minimum 399 words
9 to 12 years: minimum 699 words
13 to 16 years: minimum 1999 words
Format: Stories must be submitted in English, in a Word document or PDF format.
Originality: All entries must be original works.

Question 8

Are there any fees to participate?

Accepted Answer

There is a nominal entry fee of Rs. 249 or USD 5 to cover administrative costs.

Question 9

What is the deadline for submissions?

Accepted Answer

The submission deadline is September 30th. Late entries will not be accepted. However, by reserving a spot, you can extend the deadline and submit your story by October 31st.

Question 10

How are the stories judged?

Accepted Answer

Stories are evaluated based on creativity, originality, and overall writing quality. A panel of experienced judges will review the entries.

Question 11

When will the winners be announced?

Accepted Answer

Winners are expected to be announced on December 25th. However, delays may occur due to various factors, so we recommend following our social media channels for the latest updates.

Question 12

What do the winners receive?

Accepted Answer

Winners will have their stories published in an internationally distributed anthology. They will also receive an invitation to attend a grand book launch, certificates, a dedicated author page, the opportunity to be a guest on the YouTube podcast "Bcoz I Can with Ridhhaan," and other exciting prizes.

Question 13

Will participants receive feedback on their stories?

Accepted Answer

Due to the volume of entries, personalized feedback may not be possible for every participant. However, top entries may receive constructive comments from the judges.

Question 14

Can I submit more than one story?

Accepted Answer

Yes, participants can submit multiple stories, but each submission will require a separate entry form and fee.

Question 15

Can I edit my story after submission?

Accepted Answer

No, once a story has been submitted, it cannot be edited or resubmitted. Please ensure that the final version of your story is uploaded.

Question 16

How will I know if my submission was successful?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a confirmation email once your submission is successfully received. If you do not receive this email, please check your spam folder or contact us.

Question 17

What rights do I retain as an author?

Accepted Answer

Authors retain full rights to their stories. By entering the competition, you grant us the right to publish your story in our anthology and to promote it on various platforms.

Question 18

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

Accepted Answer

For any additional questions, please contact our support team at connect@ridhzworld.com or use the contact form on our website.

Question 19

What is the "Seat Reservation" option?

Accepted Answer

This year, we have introduced a "Seat Reservation" option for parents who may need more time to finalize their child's story. By paying the full entry fee by September 30th, you can reserve a spot for your child in the competition, allowing you to submit the story by October 31st.

Question 20

How do I reserve a seat for my child?

Accepted Answer

To reserve a seat, simply complete the registration process and pay the full entry fee by September 30th. This will secure your child’s place in the competition and extend the story submission deadline until October 31st.

Question 21

What happens if I don’t reserve a seat by September 30th?

Accepted Answer

If you do not reserve a seat by September 30th, you must submit your child’s story by the original submission deadline of September 30th. After this date, the option to submit stories will no longer be available.

Question 22

Can I reserve a seat without submitting the story right away?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the purpose of the seat reservation is to allow extra time for submitting the story. Once you reserve a seat by paying the fee in full, you have until October 31st to submit the story.

Question 23

Is the seat reservation fee refundable?

Accepted Answer

No, the seat reservation fee is non-refundable. Once paid, the fee secures your child’s spot in the competition and allows for extended time to submit the story.

Question 24

Will there be a reminder to submit the story after reserving a seat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will receive reminder emails as the October 31st submission deadline approaches. However, it is the responsibility of the participant to ensure the story is submitted on time.

Question 25

What if I miss the October 31st deadline after reserving a seat?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, if the story is not submitted by October 31st, the entry will be considered forfeited, and no refunds will be issued.

Question 26

What genre or topics are allowed?

Accepted Answer

All genres and topics are welcome! 
Surprise us with your creativity.

Question 27

How are stories judged?

Accepted Answer

Stories are evaluated by an expert panel based on originality, creativity, and language.

RidhzWorld Publishing

Where Dreams Become Stories

International Story Writing Competition for Kids by India’s Youngest Author Ridhhaan Jaiin

Season 4: Global Writing Contest for Children Be a Published Author—Worldwide Opportunities for Young Writers

The Magic of Storytelling: Once Upon in Our Minds – Season 4 Winners! 🏆

Season 4 (2025): Competition Details

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Why Enter the Once Upon In Our Minds International Story Writing Contest?

International Publishing

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Grand Book Launch & Felicitation

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Take your first step toward becoming a renowned young writer—register today for the biggest international story writing competition for children and teens!

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