Meet Our Academicians: Monica Dickson

Every day this week, in advance of opening our submission window for 2021/22 we are profiling our 6 Academicians of 2020/2021. Meet Monica Dickson.

I write flash fiction and longer short stories. My work has been published in anthologies and lit mags such as Spelk, Dear Damsels, jmww, Anti-Heroin Chic, X-R-A-Y, and been broadcast on East Leeds FM. I’ve been longlisted for the Reflex Flash Fiction and Bath Flash Fiction awards, shortlisted for the TSS Flash Fiction 400 competition and won the Northern Short Story Festival Flash Fiction Slam in 2019. My story ‘Receipts’ was selected for the inaugural list of Best British and Irish Flash Fiction (BIFFY50).

Being chosen to take part in the Northern Short Story Festival Academy this year has been such a boost and I’ve learnt so much from my fellow Academicians and our tutor, Anna Chilvers. I’ve really valued having access to such a broad range of constructive and thoughtful perspectives on my work and very much enjoyed being able to offer the same to others.

The experience has inspired me to keep writing, sharing and critiquing short stories and I’d encourage anyone who is serious about developing their craft to apply for this brilliant scheme. Thanks to The Northern Short Story Festival, Leeds Big Bookend, Arts@Leeds, Leeds City Council and the Walter Swan Trust for providing this unique opportunity.

You can find Monica on Twitter: @Mon_Dickson or her website: writingandthelike.wordpress.com

You too can join our Academy. We’re opening our submission window on Monday 23rd August. Read more here.