Summary
Verticals For Good has opened an international writing challenge to adapt Havilah Malone’s self-help book “Rewriting A New History” into a 10–12 episode vertical micro-series. Entrants can follow the book directly or create an original genre story from one of its themes. The winner receives $2,000 and will be announced at the LA Vertical Drama Market, scheduled for November 5–7, 2026. Entries are free, must be in English and are due October 30 at 8:59 p.m. Pacific time. The organizer says AI may be used for research, outlining, brainstorming and formatting, but not for the core scenes, dialogue, characters or plot. Verticals For Good says the challenge is also meant to identify writers for a broader roster that would adapt empowerment and transformation books for authors, publishers and brands. The available account is a paid press release, so its market estimates and descriptions of the initiative have not been independently verified.
Hana’s perspective
I find the AI boundary more interesting than the contest itself. It permits tools around the edges of writing while reserving scenes, dialogue, characters and plot for people. That is a concrete policy writers and producers can evaluate, rather than a vague promise of “human-led” work. The bigger opportunity is the adaptation pipeline: books already carry tested themes and an audience, while vertical drama supplies a fast, serial format. But a $2,000 prize is modest for a producible 10–12 episode script, so entrants should read the rights and ownership terms carefully before submitting.
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