After going through over 1000 submissions. The panel of judges have selected these as the Top 20 entries. Click the titles below to read the first chapters for free. And let us know which manuscript you think could win the top prize.
- The Kidnapping by Oputuboye Krukrubo
- Hues of the Sun
- In the Half Dark by Ayosojumi Adeniyi Akinsanya
- Kalamu’s Symphony by Victory Ibobo
- Book of Lost Words by Ikechukwu Nwaogu
- Devil’s Pawn by Kukogho Iruesiri Samson
- Home to the Hill by Eunice Ekelaka
- Omon by Henri Yire
- Sambisa by Mohammed Fatima Aliko
- The Smell of Rain by Nneoma Otuegbe
- The Way We Do It Here Now by Onyeka Ibe
- The Other Side of Truth by Nneoma Anieto
- Secrets Beyond the Red Gate by Sylvia Ozomena
- Lyrics by Adejoke Olamuyiwa
- Identity by Victor Oladutemu
- The Orchid Protocol by Onoche Emeka Onyekwena
- The Fugitive by Chidubem Akala
- Love Unexpected by Pailyin John
- Giants by Adeyinka Isioye
- Children of The Night by Chimaobi Olayinka Ahuekwe
The judges, which include renowned authors Eghosa Imasuen, Yejide Kilanko and Toni Kan, as well as an Assistant Professor of English Language Dr Ainehi Edoro-Glines, carefully selected the top 20 entries based on originality, language, grammar, narrative strength, coherence and dramatic intensity.
Throughout the selection process, the judges were not made aware of the identities of contestants, and the authors of the 20 shortlisted entries will remain anonymous until the winner of the contest emerges.
The authors of the shortlisted manuscripts will now proceed to a 2-day Writers Boot Camp where they will interact with and learn from accomplished authors on the art and business of writing.
Organized in partnership with publishing houses Okadabooks and Farafina, The Dusty Manuscript Contest is part of GTBank’s YouREAD initiative, which is aimed at promoting the culture of reading and inspiring the next generation of award-winning and globally renowned authors.





The Kidnapping is the best so far, and it should definitely get 1st prize. Love the twists
I know right…
It takes a great mind to weave a good tale. Glad to see that Naija has such to offer.
Took my time to read through all twenty
The kidnapping is my favorite.
I need to read the full book, where can I get it?
The Kidnapping
Best on the list
Please click on the Title, it will lead you to the page where you’ll get it for free.
The Kidnapping wins hands down. Can’t wait to read the rest!
Has anyone seen the first few paragraphs of OMON? reads like a movie. Interesting plot.
How didn’t I hear of this sooner? Good luck to the shortlisted books. I like the plot of the first one, the kidnapping. Reads like a very engaging story.
I hope to be on this list next year.
This is nice