want to be a contestant?

*

You do not need a completed or even a partially completed memoir.
You must be willing to write a memoir in the event that you win. The winner receives a publishing contract and a year’s worth of coaching to help them write their memoir. They also get a $10,000 advance.
You must not have already published a novel or memoir with a Big 5 publisher. It’s okay if you have already self-published a novel or memoir or have a contract with a small press.

Seven contestants will be flown to Cusco, Peru. The shooting schedule is from May 1 to May 16, 2025.
You need to be in good health as the altitude of Cusco is 11,150 ft (3400 m).
Contestants’ accommodation and food will be completely covered. Airfare from the United States or Canada is also included. If you are from a country other than the United States or Canada, you may still participate, but you might be asked to cover the additional cost of airfare from your country.
In each episode, contestants will participate in experiences in Peru and then write about those experiences. One contestant will be eliminated per episode until a winner is crowned.
Writing tasks will be very short and we will give you plenty of time to finish them during shooting. Usually you will have at least 24 hours to complete your writing task and the writing will never be longer than a page. Often you will be asked to write just one or two paragraphs.

Writers must fill out the application by February 28, 2025. This includes submitting a writing sample and short informal video.
Those who are selected as finalists will be notified by March 15.
Contestants and alternates will be announced by April 1.
Finalists arrive in Cusco on May 1.
Shooting lasts until May 16.
The reality show goes live in the fall.

We will choose contestants based on the quality of their writing sample as well as their personality. We want a mix of different personalities so even shy people are encouraged to apply.
If you want to know what makes for good prose, watch this video.
When it comes to personality, we’ll be looking at sincerity more than anything else. We also want a mix of people from different backgrounds and age groups.