Tags: second book awards

Levis Reading Prize

Virginia Commonwealth University

Entry Fee:

Deadline:

January 15, 2026

A prize of $5,000 and an all-expenses-paid trip to give a reading at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond is given annually for a first or second book of poetry published during the previous year. Publishers or writers may submit three copies of a book of at least 48 pages published in 2025, one PDF copy of the book, a cover letter, and a brief author bio by January 15. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

Tags:

first book awards | second book awards

Anthony Hecht Poetry Prize

Waywiser Press

Entry Fee:

$29

Deadline:

December 1, 2024

A prize of $3,000 and publication by the Waywiser Press is given annually for a poetry collection by a poet who has published no more than one previous collection. The winner will also give a reading with the contest judge at the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C. Shane McCrae will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a manuscript of 48 to 88 pages with a $29 entry fee by December 1. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

Tags:

second book awards

Antivenom Poetry Award

Elixir Press

Entry Fee:

$30

Deadline:

March 31, 2024

A prize of $1,000 and publication by Elixir Press is given annually for a first or second poetry collection. Kathleen Winter will judge. Submit a manuscript of at least 48 pages with a $30 entry fee by March 31. All entries are considered for publication. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

Tags:

first book awards | second book awards