Unusual Calls for Submissions

Miami University Novella Contest
As commercial publishers are driven more and more by marketplace concerns, novellas, by nature of their length, often fall between the cracks of short story collections and novels and wind up being published—if at all—not as individual volumes but as part of a collection of stories. Because the form is such a pleasure for readers and writers alike—short enough to be read at a single sustained sitting, but long enough to allow the writer greater freedom in character and plot development than does the short story—we are happy to present a rare venue for publishing individual novellas as stand-alone volumes. Winner receives $1000 and book publication. Submission details here.

Call for Submissions for Issue 3: Chickenpinata, a journal of poetry
Inspired by a recent trip across the Mississippi River, the editors of Chickenpinata are accepting poems for the "Bridges" theme until Friday, June 26. We want to see poems that take both literal and metaphorical approaches to bridges--what do they mean? What is crossed over? Where are you once you've crossed? Etc. Writers may interpret this theme broadly. Please indicate the theme in your subject heading: e.g. "Submission--Your Name--Bridges." More here.

Fairy Tale Lust: Erotic Bedtime Stories for Women
Editor: Kristina Wright; Publisher: Cleis Press; Publication Date: Spring 2010; Submission Deadline: August 15; Payment: $50 per story, upon publication; E-mail: fairytalelust at gmail dot com (replace (at) with @). Once upon a time, an editor sent out a call far and wide in search of deliciously naughty adult fairy tales… In this collection of erotic fairy tales for women, I am seeking reinvented classic tales as well as new fables that blend fantasy and desire. Writers are encouraged to explore the vast realm of fairy tales and reinterpret those that are familiar or lesser known, but are also invited to craft original stories playing on classic archetypes. Diversity and creativity are key! Submission Guidelines: Unpublished stories only, no simultaneous submissions. Stories should be 1,500-4,000 words, double-spaced, 12 point font, in Microsoft Word document format only. Do not put extra spaces between paragraphs. Include full contact information (real name/pseudonym, mailing address and phone number) and a brief bio with your submission.Send your submission as a .doc attachment to fairytalelust at gmail dot com (replace (at) with @) with Submission: Story Title in the subject line. Please direct any questions to the same address.

Art from Art Anthology
Deadline 7/31/09. This collection of short fiction by literary writers aims to feature stories that are connected directly to—or inspired by—a work of art. It could be a song, a painting, a museum, an architectural monument, a blueprint, a piece of writing—a play, novel, poem, letter, etc. The art in question needs to be a major component of the story—a character—within the fabric of the story. Perhaps the idea will be inspired by an event from life or maybe it will be something completely fabricated. All genres welcome. ART from ART will bring new and established voices and ideas to a fine collection of fiction. I aim to have the art featured on a page either at the beginning or the end of each story—a visual correlative that will enhance the experience. Submit your story and a brief bio via email to Stephen Soucy at (replace (at) with @). Please follow standard submission guidelines (Microsoft Word Document with 12-point font). More here.

BIRTH PARENT ANTHOLOGY and MISCARRIAGE ANTHOLOGY
Catalyst Book Press is seeking literary essays telling personal stories of adoption, open adoption, birth parent connections, the adoption triad, and unification with children after closed adoption for an anthology for and about birth parents. Authors of accepted essays will receive $50 for their stories and one copy of the publication. Submissions can be sent by August 15, 2009 to co-editors Ann and Amanda Angel, 15255 Turnberry Dr., Brookfield, WI 53005. For more information, please email Ann at (replace (at) with @).
If you wish your manuscript returned, please include an SASE.

Catalyst Book Press is also seeking literary essays telling personal stories of miscarriage, in particular emotional and spiritual ramifications of miscarriage or the transformations that occurred in people’s lives as a result of undergoing or observing a miscarriage. We are looking for essays that reflect a diversity of experiences and outcomes. Authors of accepted essays will receive $50 for their stories and one copy of the publication. Submissions can be sent by August 15, 2009 to editor Jay Gibson at (replace (at) with @) or care of Catalyst Book Press, 709 Masson Ave. Apt. A, San Bruno CA 94066. If you wish your manuscript returned, please include an SASE. More on both here.