Edinburgh 2010 Testimonial
Lara Clyde
Tynecastle High School, Edinburgh
Winner of Gadda Juniors 2010
The Gadda Prize was something I was immediately interested in taking part in. It was difficult at first, to come up with an idea that would fit the criteria: a detective story set in Rome – both of which I have never experienced. However, after doing thorough research, I began writing my story on that first night with no inkling at all that my entry would make it through to the final. It was the challenge of writing about something unfamiliar that had attracted me in the first place.
Attending the workshop during the morning was a great way to calm some nerves and get to know the other semi-finalists. We got the chance to meet professional writers – screen and published – and learn about their experiences, as well as practicing our own writing skills.
In the evening, we had the final where the winners and runners-up were announced. It felt good to be part of the union of Italian and Scottish culture in Edinburgh but, as more and more names were called up, six finalists suddenly wasn’t a very big number! I couldn’t believe it when my name was called as the overall winner – taking part in the first ever Gadda Prize was an incredible and unforgettable experience for me. A competition this unique is surely a great way to get your name on the writing scene so I would encourage anyone and everyone to go for it – this could be the launch of your writing career!
In bocca al lupo!
Lara Clyde
Tynecastle High School, Edinburgh
