THE PITCH is a 2026 writing contest created by Chatter on Books that puts independent bookstores at the center of the process, elevating books they know deserve a wider audience.
Each participating bookstore nominates one author. Those authors join the Chatter on Books podcast so listeners can follow along as the contest unfolds. One author wins $5,000. The nominating bookstore receives $500.
How It Works
- Independent bookstores each nominate one author from their community or region
- Eligible authors must have a book publishing in the first half of 2026
- Nominated authors and store owners appear on the Chatter on Books podcast
- One author is selected as the winner
- The winning author receives $5,000
- The nominating bookstore receives $500
Participating Bookstores
Bookstores participating in THE PITCH include:
- Black Pearl Books
- City Lights Books
- Exile in Bookville
- Theodore’s Books
- Arcadia Books
- Left-Bank Books.
- Books & Books
- Changing Hands Bookstore
Additional bookstores will be announced.
Key Dates
January – April – authors/books nominated
May – four finalists announced
Summer – Judging
September – winner announced