Here is an opportunity for your story to be a part of the acclaimed “Chicken Soup…” series. Guest writer Raksha Bharadia, author of Chicken Soup for the India soul (Westland publications) is compiling stories for her next venture “Chicken Soup for the Indian Romantic Soul”. Read ahead to learn more, and for participation guidelines.

Recipe for A Winning Chicken Soup for the Soul Story

A Chicken Soup for the Soul story is an inspirational, true story about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. It is a story that opens the heart and rekindles the spirit. They are personal and often filled with emotion and drama. In some stories, the readers feel that they are actually in the scene with the people.

Chicken Soup for the Soul stories have a beginning, middle and an ending that often closes with a punch, creating emotion rather than simply talking about it.

The most powerful stories are about people extending themselves, or performing an act of love, service or courage for another person.

The write-ups will carry the contributors’ name. Westland pays Rs 1000 per story and two copies of the book. We carry a 3-4 line profile on all contributing authors. We accept blogged and published work too. The copyright of the stories stay with the author.

Guidelines for a Chicken Soup for the Soul Story

1. Tell an exciting, sad or funny story about something that has happened to you or someone you know. Make sure that you introduce the character(s).

2. Tell your story in a way that will make the reader cry, laugh or get goose bumps (the good kind!) Don’t leave anything out — how did you feel?

3. The story should start with action; it should include a problem, issue or situation. It should include dialogue and the character should express their feelings though the conflict or situation. It should end in a result, such as a lesson learned, a positive change or pay-off.

What a Chicken Soup for the Soul story IS NOT:

1. A sermon, an essay or eulogy.

2. A term paper, thesis, letter or journal entry.

3. About politics or controversial issues.

4. A biography or testimonial.

Story Specifications

1. Stories and poems should be non-fiction, ranging in length between 300-1200 words.

If the story or poem you wrote is published by us, you will be paid Rs 1000 per contribution.

You will also get two copies of the book.

Feel free to submit more than one story or poem.

The sections:

Finding True Love

Love and Romance

Romantic moments

Romance and Marriage

Memories of Love

Lessons in Love

For Better or for Worse

The Flame still Burns

How to contribute:

Please send your stories to: rakshabharadia@gmail.com before 30th September 2009