Word count limit: 1,500 words.

Stories — fictional or fact-based — must be the author's own work. Winners will be required to sign a fee-for-service contract attesting that the work is original and that the author has the proper permissions and rights to the work, and granting The Honolulu Advertiser the right to publish the story and place it online. Authors must use their real name; no noms de plume. Authors will be asked to provide a short biography and to send in or sit for a photograph.

Entries in verse are acceptable. Illustrations will not be considered.

Judges' decision is final.

Employees of The Honolulu Advertiser may not enter. Manuscripts or e-mails must include name, address, daytime telephone and e-mail address. No pen names, please. Manuscripts or e-mails must be labeled "adult" or "children's."

Deadline: Postmarked or e-mailed on or before Nov. 30.

Send stories to: Holiday Fiction, Island Life, The Honolulu Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802. Or e-mail to islandlife@honoluluadvertiser.com with "Holiday Fiction" in the subject line. We will confirm receipt of e-mailed entries.