The series launched with works from Chinua Achebe, Dambudzo Marechera, Véronique Tadjo, Lília Momplé, Ngugi wa Thiong'o and Karen King-Aribisala.
According to Penguin, every book in the Penguin African Writers series is distinctly African and the illustrations should reflect this while also taking into account the fact that each title is a unique piece of work. It is looking for creative representations of contemporary and/or traditional Africa, though the artwork's connection to the title and content of the book does not necessarily have to be literal, as the messages and themes are open to interpretation.
Only the winners will be notified. Penguin will not use artwork without notifying the artist.
Submission specifications:
Email cover art to before 9 October 2009. No submissions will be accepted after this date.
Penguin Books will pay the artist of the chosen illustrations a fee of R1200. A usage agreement will be established with a signed contract between Penguin Books SA and the artist.