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Birkbeck creative writing student wins 2016 Bristol Short Story Prize

Stefanie Seddon's short story Kākahu was described as 'poignant' and 'magical' by judges

Birkbeck MA creative writing student Stefanie Seddon has won the 2016 Bristol Short Story Prize, an international writing competition open to writers worldwide. Stefanie, originally from New Zealand and now based in Kent, won with her story Kākahu.

The prestigious international writing competition, now in its 9th year, received 2,160 entries from writers around the world.

Chair of the judging panel Tania Hershman said of Stefanie’s story: “Kãkahu is a poignant, magical story tackling trauma through a child's eyes using the power of myth. Writing from a child's point of view is a challenge, and Stefanie rises to it beautifully, unsentimentally. From the opening sentence we know we are held safely by a writer who knows exactly where she is going, and takes us there with grace and surety."

Stefanie said: “I'm completely surprised and delighted that Kãkahu got this far. Opportunities like the Bristol Prize make such a difference to emerging writers. I feel very lucky to be in the anthology alongside such a strong group of writers.

"The Birkbeck MA creative writing gave me guidance, structure and confidence; it was an inspiring two years and I will miss it very much - even the deadlines - now that I'm out on my own.”

Julia Bell, convenor of Birkbeck’s MA creative writing, said: “Yet another important prize for Stefanie - who is one of the stars of her cohort. But there are many more - the breadth and diversity of talent on the MA is a real testament to our brilliant tutors and Birkbeck’s special mission which attracts students from all walks of life across London and beyond.”

Stefanie’s story, along with second and third prize winning stories and 17 shortlisted stories is included in The Bristol Short Story Prize Anthology Volume 9, which is now on general sale worldwide.

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[Image: Stefanie Seddon (right) with judging panel chair Tania Hershman]

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