This I Believe Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a deadline for submission of my essay?
Yes. For the first season of This I Believe we are asking that essays be submitted no later than June 30, 2007.
How long should my essay be?
Between 350 and 500 words, or about three minutes when read aloud at your natural speaking pace.
How do I know you received my essay?
When you successfully submit your essay through our website, you will see an on-screen message that your essay was received. This will be your only confirmation of the submission process.
Can I submit an essay via regular mail?
Although we prefer that you submit your essay online, you can also mail it to us at:
- Anne Penman
- This I Believe, CBC Radio One
- Box 4600 Vancouver, B.C.
- V6B 4A2
Please note however, that you will have to print, sign and return the submission agreement before we can review a submission sent through the mail.
What happens to my essay after I submit it?
Every essay we receive is read and reviewed for potential broadcast on CBC Radio. It might take six to eight weeks to review and decide which essays will be considered for broadcast.
If your essay is selected for potential broadcast on CBC, you will be contacted. Please be patient with us during this review process: we want to give careful consideration to every essay we receive.
How can I improve the chances of my essay being broadcast?
First, make sure your essay is framed in a concrete belief or conviction ( many wonderful essays are not produced because they do not contain a statement of belief). Then, tell us a compelling story about how you came to hold that belief, or a time that belief was challenged, or how that belief shapes your daily activities. Try sharing one belief instead of composing a list of all of your beliefs.
When can I hear the new essays?
You can listen to and read the new essays on the cbc.ca This I Believe website. The essays will air on CBC Radio One weekdays after the 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. newscasts(except Monday evenings) beginning Monday May 14 for twelve weeks.
How can I contact the author of my favorite essay?
We do not share personal contact information about our essayists. However, you may share your thoughts about a specific essay or your comments about the series by visiting our contact page.
How can I get a transcript of an essay?
You can print transcripts of the essays from the cbc.ca/this I believe web site. Simply click on the "print page" icon in the upper right corner of the web page featuring the essay you like.
How can I get a book or audio recordings of the 1950s essays?
A hugely successful series of books and recordings from the original American series was created under the title of This I Believe. These are available from many online sources of used books and vintage records. In addition, twenty of the 1950s essays are now available in a new book/audiobook.
To order your copy of This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women, in hardcover or audiobook editions, please visit amazon.com, borders.com, or barnesandnoble.com.
