75 Writing Contests in March 2022 - No entry fees

This March there are more than six dozen free writing contests for short fiction, novels, poetry, CNF, nonfiction, and plays. Prizes range from $25,000 to a free writing class. None charge entry fees.

Some of these contests have age and geographical restrictions, so read the instructions carefully.

If you want to get a jump on next month's contests go to Free Contests. Most of these contests are offered annually, so even if the deadline is past, you can prepare for next year.

Good luck!

(Image: pixnio)

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Lewis Galantiere Award. Restrictions: Open to US citizens or permanent residents. Genre: Translation of book-length literary work from any language, except German, into English. Entries must have been published in the US in the past two years. Prize: $1000. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Atwood Gibson Writers' Trust Fiction Prize. Genre: Fiction. Restrictions: Titles must be published in Canada and written by Canadians. No self-published works. Prize: $60,000 will be awarded to a novel or short-story collection published between October 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022. Prizes of $5,000 will be awarded to each of the finalists. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Saddlebag Dispatches: Second Annual Mustang Award for Western Flash Fiction Contest. Genre: Short stories of no more than 1,000 words. The story settings should be in the American west, to include Canada and Mexico, between 1860 and 1920.  Prize: $25 and publication. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Deep Wild Graduate Student Essay Prize. Restrictions: Open to students currently enrolled in graduate programs. Genre: Essay. "We seek work that conjures the experiences, observations, and insights of backcountry journeys." Prize: Cash award. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

North Carolina State Poetry Contest. Restrictions: Open to North Carolina residents (including out-of-state and international students who are enrolled in North Carolina universities)with no published books. Genre: Poetry. Prize: $500. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Hippocrates Young Poets Prize for Poetry and Medicine. Restrictions: Open to poets aged 14-18 years. Genre: Poem. Prize: Unspecified. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Iron Horse 2022 Chapbook Competition. Genre: Prose chapbook, between 40 and 56 pages. Prize:  $1,000 honorarium and 15 copies. Deadline: March 1, 2022. Note: They will accept 25 free submissions on March 1, 2022.

#PassOrPages Query Contest. Participating agents give brief feedback on a handful of entries, explaining why they're passing ... or requesting pages. The queries and accompanying feedback are posted anonymously, which helps querying authors get a peek into agents' minds as they go through their slush piles. Genre: TBA Deadline: March 4, 2022. 

The Maureen Egen Writers Exchange Award introduces emerging writers to the New York City literary community. The prestigious award aims to provide promising writers a network for professional advancement. Since Poets & Writers began the Writers Exchange in 1984, 85 writers from 33 states and the District of Columbia have been selected to participate. Restrictions: Open to Nebraska residents.  Genre: Poetry and Fiction. Prize: A $500 honorarium; A trip to New York City to meet with editors, agents, publishers, and other writers. All related travel/lodgings expenses and a per diem stipend are covered by Poets & Writers. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Toronto Star Short Story Contest. Restrictions: Open to Ontario residents 16 years of age or older. Genre: Short story. Prize: 1st prize - $5000; 2nd prize - $2000, 3rd prize - $1000. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Alabama Arts Council Fellowships. Restrictions: Open to any author who has lived in Alabama for at least 2 years. Genre: Fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction of 10-20 pages. Prize: $5,000. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Balticon Poetry Contest. Sponsored by the Baltimore Science Fiction Society. Genre: Speculative poetry. Prize: 1st prize: $100; 2nd prize: $75; 3rd prize: $50. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Mississippi Artists Fellowships. Restrictions: Open to permanent residents of Mississippi. Genre: Fiction and poetry. Prize: $5,000. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Beverly Hopkins Memorial Poetry Contest for High School Students. Restrictions: High school students living within 100 miles of St. Louis. Genre: Poetry. Prize: First prize $200, Second prize $125, Third prize $75. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

The Waterman Fund Essay Contest. Genre: Personal essays between 2000 and 3000 words. "The  Waterman Fund seeks new voices on the role and place of wilderness in today’s world." Prizes: The winning essayist will be awarded $1500 and publication in Appalachia Journal. The Honorable Mention essay will receive $500. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Non-Fiction. Genre: Literary non-fiction. Restrictions: Titles must be published in Canada and written by Canadians. Prize: $60,000 will be awarded to a literary nonfiction book published between October 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Grant MacEwan Creative Writing Scholarship is sponsored by the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Genres: Poetry, Short Fiction & Creative Nonfiction, Drama, or Graphic Novel. Restrictions: Authors must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate creative writing program of study or mentorship. (Max age 25) Alberta residents only. Prize: $5000 (CAN). Deadline: March 1, 2022.

The Naomi Long Madgett Poetry Award is sponsored by Broadside Lotus Press. Restrictions: This competition is open to African American poets only. If you have already had a book published by Lotus Press, you are ineligible. However, inclusion in a Lotus Press anthology does not disqualify you. Genres: Poetry collections of approximately 60-90 pages. Prize: $500 in cash and publication  by Broadside Lotus Press as well as free copies and discounts. Deadline: March 1, 2022.

Christopher Tower Poetry Competition. Restrictions: Open to UK students between 16-18 years of age. Genre: Poetry, one poem, maximum 48 lines. Theme is "Dream." Prize: £5,000. Deadline: March 2, 2022.

Spectator Competition No. 3239: Bookish. Genre: "Sajid Javid is a big fan of Ayn Rand and Justin Trudeau loves Stephen King. You are invited to submit political manifestos inspired by literary heroes (please specify). Please email entries of up to 150 words to lucy@spectator.co.uk by midday on 2 March." Prize: £30. Deadline: March 2, 2022. (Registration required)

Orwell Prize for Journalism. Restrictions: Open to a journalist for sustained reportage and/or commentary working in any medium. Genre: Published journalism. Prize: £3,000 for the best political writing first published in the UK or Ireland between January 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022. Deadline: March 3, 2022.

Orwell Prize for for Exposing Britain’s Social Evils. Restrictions: Open to a journalist for sustained reportage and/or commentary working in any medium. Genre: A story that has enhanced the public understanding of social problems and public policy in the UK. Prize: £3,000 for the best political writing first published in the UK or Ireland between January 1, 2021 and February 28, 2022. Deadline: March 3, 2022.

On The Premises: Arrival. "For this contest, write a creative, compelling, well-crafted story between 1,000 and 5,000 words long in which… IN THE FIRST SENTENCE… one or more characters arrive at a location and find something unexpected." Prize: $250 for first place, $200 for second, $150 for third. Deadline: March 4, 2022.

The Lakefly Writers Conference. Restrictions: Open to residents of Wisconsin. Genres: Short story fiction: 1500 words or less. Any genre. Flash fiction: 500 words or fewer. Any genre. No theme. Poetry: All poems, free verse to formal and everything in between—75 lines max. Teen short story: Open to 18 years old and younger. Maximum 1,500 words. Any genre. See theme. Prize: First place winners will receive a cash prize of $100; second place winners will receive $75; and third place winners will receive $50. Winners must be able to attend an awards ceremony. Deadline: March 5, 2022.

Illumination Prose Prize. Genre: Creative nonfiction or fiction of 5,000 words or less. Prize: $100 and publication in Spire Light: A Journal of Creative Expression. Deadline: March 5, 2022.

Windsor Fringe - Kenneth Branagh Award for New Drama Writing. Genre: One-act play. Only amateur playwrights are eligible. Prize: £500. Deadline: March 5, 2022. Postal submissions only.

"It's All Write!" Teen Short Story Contest. Restrictions: Open to Grades 6-12. Michigan residents only. Genre: Short story, and flash fiction, unpublished. Prize: 1st Place $250, 2nd Place $150, 3rd Place $100. Deadline: March 6, 2022.

Furious Fiction. Genre: Flash fiction. "On the first Friday of every month, a new set of story prompts will be revealed. You will have 55 hours to submit your best 500-word (or fewer) story." Prize: $500AUD. Deadline: March 6, 2022.

NEA Literature Fellowships are sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts. Genre: Poetry.  Prize: $25,000 grants to published creative writers that enable recipients to set aside time for writing, research, travel, and general career advancement. Deadline: March 10, 2022.

Jane Martin Poetry Prize (UK). Restrictions: Open to UK residents between 18 and 30 years of age. Genre: Poetry. Prize: £700, second prize, £300. Deadline: March 11, 2022.

Harper’s Bazaar short-story competition 2022. Restrictions: Open to UK residents or nationals, aged 18 or over. Genre: Original, unpublished short story, written in English on the subject of ‘Treasure’ up to 2,200 words. Prize: Two-night stay for two at Grantley Hall, Yorkshire (UK). Deadline: March 13, 2022.

Highlights Foundation Scholarships. Prize: 25 full tuition scholarships and 20 partial tuition scholarships for workshops that take place at the Highlights Foundation Retreat Center. 30 full tuition scholarships for online courses through the Highlights Foundation. 15 scholarships for personal retreats at the Highlights Foundation Retreat Center. Deadline: March 13, 2022.

The Fitzcarraldo Editions Essay Prize. Restrictions: Open to writers resident in the UK and Ireland who have yet to secure a publishing deal. Genre: Proposal for a book-length essay (minimum 25,000 words). Prize: £3,000 advance against publication with Fitzcarraldo Editions. Deadline: March 14, 2022.

White River Environmental Law Writing Competition is sponsored by the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law and Vermont Law School. Restrictions: Open to all students currently pursuing a degree (J.D. or LL.M) at an accredited law school in the United States. Submissions written as a class component, as a journal requirement, or otherwise for academic credit are acceptable. Genre: Original essays addressing any relevant topic in the fields of environmental law, natural resource law, energy law, environmental justice, land use law, animal law, and agricultural law. Prize: $1000 cash prize and an offer of publication with the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law. Deadline: March 14, 2022.

Forward Prizes. Genre: Collections and single poems published in the UK and Ireland are eligible for the Prizes. Must be submitted by publisher. Prize: £1,000 to £10,000. Deadline: March 14, 2022.

Lynn DeCaro Poetry Contest. Restrictions: Open to Connecticut Student Poets in Grades 9-12. Genre: Poetry. Prize: 1st $75, 2nd $50, 3rd $25. Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Nancy Ludmerer Fellowship for Flash Fiction and Nonfiction. Genre: One or more flash narratives up to 1,000 words. Award: A 5-night residency at Porches. Deadline: March 15, 2022. No entry fee for the first 15 submissions received on March 15. 

EastOver Prize for Nonfiction. Genre: Book-length nonfiction. "We are especially interested in collections of literary essays, but will consider memoirs, mixed genre works, works combining essays and original visual art, speculative nonfiction, and other hybrid works." Prize: $2000 and publication.  Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Greater Yellowstone Creative Writing and Journalism Fellowship. Restrictions: Established and recognized authors are being sought, but emerging and mid-career writers are also encouraged to apply. Genre: Seeking creative writers (poetry, fiction, nonfiction), or those in the field of journalism (writer, photojournalist, videographer, documentary filmmaker, online or print media) who demonstrate serious inquiry and dedication to the Greater Yellowstone region through their work. Fellowship: $3,500.  Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Neltje Blanchan/Frank Nelson Doubleday Memorial Awards. Restrictions: Wyoming writers. Genres: The Frank Nelson Doubleday Award is given for the best poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or script written by a woman writer. The Neltje Blanchan Memorial Writing Award is given annually for the best poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or script which is informed by a relationship with the natural world. Prize: $1,000. Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Nicholas A. Virgilio Memorial Haiku Competition for High School Students. Restrictions: Open to students in Grades 7-12. Genre: Haiku. Prize: $50. Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Andres Montoya Poetry Prize. Restrictions: Open to Latino authors who are residents of the US. Genre: First book of poetry published by a Latino author. Prize: $1,000 and publication by the University of Notre Dame Press. Deadline: March15, 2022. (Extended deadline)

2022 NFSPS Annual Poetry Contests. Genre: Poetry. The National Federation of State Poetry Societies sponsors 50 contests for adults, 34 of which are free and open to the public. There are also 3 free poetry contests for children. Prize: Monetary awards vary. Deadline: March 15, 2022.

Neltje Blanchan/Frank Nelson Doubleday Memorial Awards. Restrictions: Wyoming writers. Genres: The Frank Nelson Doubleday Award is given for the best poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or script written by a woman writer. The Neltje Blanchan Memorial Writing Award is given annually for the best poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or script which is informed by a relationship with the natural world. Prize: $1,000. Deadline: March 15, 2022.

2022 POPP Award: Poetry of the Plains and Prairies. Genre: Poetry of any style for their annual Poetry of the Plains and Prairies chapbook publication. "While the author(s) may call any place home, their submissions must deftly capture the feeling of, as well as the reality of, living on the plains and prairies. Authors may submit any number of poems equaling thirty to thirty-five pages in length, with no more than one poem per page. (Single poems may extend more than one page.) The selected poetry collection will be published as a limited edition chapbook, hand-printed with antique letterpress equipment."  Prize: Publication. Deadline: March 17, 2022.

Life After Conflict. Restrictions: Open to young people ages 9 - 18. Genre: Poetry, art, speech, song. Prize: Unspecified. Deadline: March 18, 2022.

The Mollie Savage Memorial Writing Contest. Genre: Mystery short story. Prize: Winning stories are published in Toasted Cheese. If 50 or fewer eligible entries are received, first place receives a $35 Amazon gift card & second a $10 Amazon gift card. If 51 or more eligible entries are received, first place receives a $50 Amazon gift card, second a $15 Amazon gift card & third a $10 Amazon gift card. Deadline: March 20, 2022. Opens March 18.

BBC National Short Story Award. Restrictions: Open to UK residents or nationals, aged 18 or over, who have a history of publication in creative writing. Genre: Short fiction. Prize: £15,000 to the winner, £3,000 for the runner-up and £500 for three further shortlisted writers. Deadline: March 21, 2022.

Ukraine Lab. "The Ukrainian Institute London in partnership with PEN Ukraine and the Ukrainian Institute will run UKRAINE LAB, an online residency for six emerging writers from Ukraine and the United Kingdom. We will support them developmentally and financially to produce creative nonfiction pieces tackling global challenges through the prism of Ukraine. This project is supported by the British Council and the Ukrainian Institute as part of the UK/UA Season of Culture 2022." Deadline: March 21, 2022.

Limp Wrist: Glitter Bomb Award. Restrictions: Open to LGBTQ/non-binary poets and their allies. Genre: Poem by a poet of any stage of her/his/their career. Prize: $600 and publication in Limp Wrist. Deadline: March 24, 2022.

Solarpunk Micro Fiction Contest: Mental Health. Restrictions: Open to authors with mental health struggles. Genre: Fiction 250 words or less. Prize: $25. Deadline: March 24, 2022.

Modern Love College Essay Contest. Restrictions: Open to US college students age 18+.  Genre: Personal essay that tells the plain truth about what love and relationships are like for college students today. Prize: $1000. Deadline: March 27, 2022.

Daisy Utemorrah Award for Indigenous Authors. Restrictions: Open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander writer currently residing in Australia. Genre:  Junior/YA full-length fiction manuscript intended for readers aged 8-18. Length: 40,000 and 100,000 words. Prize: A$15,000 and possible publication.  Deadline: March 30, 2022.

Vweta Chadwick Poetry Prize. Restrictions: Open to female high school and college students in Nigeria. Genre: Unpublished poems, 40 lines maximum, about "invisible disability." Prize: $200.   Deadline: March 30, 2022.

Jack L. Chalker Young Writers' Contests. Restrictions: Open to writers between 14 and 18 years of age as of May 29 in the contest year who reside in, or attend school in Maryland. Genre: Science fiction or fantasy, 2,500 words max. Prizes: $150, $100 and $75. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

2022 Silvers Grants for Work in Progress. Restrictions: Open to Anglophone writers of any nationality. Genre: Long-form essays in the fields of literary criticism, arts writing, political analysis, and/or social reportage. Prize: Up to $10,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Invisible City Blurred Genre Flash Contest. Genre: Flash fiction, prose poetry or a combination. Length: 750 words max. Prize: $500, $200 and $100. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Villena Aldama Art & Writing Contest. Restrictions: Open to writers under the age of 25. Genre: Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and art/hybrid forms. Prize: $250. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Jack London Fiction Writing Contest. Restrictions: Open to U.S. students in grades 6-8. Genre: Unpublished stories. Length: 2,000 words maximum. "The theme of the contest is “Building Brighter Communities.” Prize: $250, $150, and $100. Deadline: March 31, 2022. Read flyer HERE.

A Public Space Emerging Writer Fellowships. Restrictions: Open to writers who have not yet contracted to publish a book. Prize: $1000 and six months of editorial support from A Public Space editors to prepare a piece of prose for publication in the magazine. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

L. Ron Hubbard's Writers of the Future Contest. Restrictions: Open only to those who have not professionally published a novel or short novel, or more than one novelette, or more than three short stories, in any medium. Genres: Science fiction, fantasy and dark fantasy up to 17,000 words. Prizes: Three cash prizes in each quarter: a First Prize of $1,000, a Second Prize of $750, and a Third Prize of $500, in US dollars. In addition, at the end of the year the winners will have their entries rejudged, and a Grand Prize winner shall be determined and receive an additional $5,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Shady Grove Literary. Genre: Any style, genre, tone of flash fiction. Length: 300 words max. Prize: $100. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Saif Ghobash Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation. Genre: Poetry or literary prose. Translation of modern Arabic literature into English. Books must have been published and be available for purchase in the UK via a distributor or online. The source text must have been published in the original Arabic in or after 1967. Must be submitted by publisher. Prize: £3,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

City of Literature Paul Engle Prize. Genre: This prize does not recognize one work, nor is it solely limited to reflecting literary achievement. Rather, the award seeks to recognize a writer, like Engle, who makes an impact on his or her community and the world at large through efforts beyond the page. It also seeks to raise awareness about Engle and his works. Prize: $20,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

#GWstorieseverywhere. Genre: Micro fiction. Your story must be no longer than 25 words, with a max of 280 characters, including spaces and the hashtag. See themes. Prize: Free Gotham class. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Sarah Mook Poetry Prize for Students. Restrictions: Students in grades K-12. Genre: Poetry. Prize: $100. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Sleeping Bear Press: Own Voices, Own Stories Award. Restrictions: Contest is open to BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ writers. Applicants must be United States residents and at least 18 years of age.  Genre: BIPOC and/or LGBTQ+ children—or children of LGBTQ+ families. Prize: Grand Prize winners will receive a $2,000 cash prize, in addition to a publishing contract with advance and royalties standard for new Sleeping Bear Press authors. Honor Award winners will receive a $500 cash prize as well as one consulting session with a Sleeping Bear Press editor. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Foley Poetry Contest. Genre: One unpublished poem on any topic. The poem should be 45 lines or fewer and not under consideration elsewhere. Prize: $1000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

The George W. Hunt, S.J., Prize for Excellence in Journalism, Arts & Letters. Genre: The 2022 prize is open to: Cultural or Historical Critic. "Writers of books, articles or essays intended for a thoughtful, general audience are invited to submit material in the following categories: biography, memoir, general history, cultural analysis and criticism (aesthetics, art, drama and film, education), political and social criticism, philosophical and theological reflections. Books, articles and essays written principally for academic audiences or specialists will not be considered. Nominees must supply one or more book excerpt(s), article(s), or essay(s) not to exceed 10,000 words in total. The Nomination Committee may request further excerpts or complete works." Prize: $20,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Archibald Lamp­man Award. Restrictions: Open to residents of Canada's National Capital region (Ottawa). Genre: Book of any genre published by a recognized publisher. Prize: $1500. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Nottingham Writers Studio: The George Floyd Short Story Competition. Genre: Fiction and nonfiction. “With this anthology, we seek to capture not only stories of social justice that capture the mood, tone, and energy of the vital Black Lives Matter movement, but the entire gamut of BAME life experience, from social justice to comedies by black authors to romances with a predominantly Asian cast. This competition is open to all as we welcome the experiences of advocates and allies as well as voices from the black community. Above all, we want to ensure in publishing the anthology we amplify, centre, and celebrate the voices and writings of people of colour.” Prize: £250, £125, £75; £30 for runners-up.  Deadline: March 31, 2022.

The Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Writers of Color Award. Sponsored by Sisters in Crime.   Restrictions: Open to emerging writers of color. An unpublished writer is preferred, although publication of one work of short fiction or academic work will not disqualify an applicant. Prize: $2,000. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Restless Books Prize for New Immigrant Writing. Restrictions: Open to first-generation residents of the United States. “First-generation” can refer either to people born in another country who relocated to the U.S., or to American-born residents whose parents were born elsewhere. Genre: Unpublished nonfiction books. Prize: $10,000 and publication. Deadline: March 31, 2022.

2022 Sijo Competition. Genre: A Sijo poem. Prize: Adult division: First ($1,000), Second ($750), Third ($500); Pre-college division: First ($500), Second ($400), Third ($300) Deadline: March 31, 2022.

Substack runs a monthly short story competition. Their mission is to "revive the art of the short story, support artists, and produce something wonderful." Genre: Short story. Length: 6000- 10,000 words. Prize: $100 plus 50% of subscription revenue to be sent by Paypal, Zelle, or check. Deadline: March 31, 2022. Reprints are ok so long as you still have the rights to distribute.

24 Marvelous Writing Conferences in March 2022

Writing conferences usually start to pick up in March. Like last year, many conferences and workshops will be held online, but some will be held in person as pandemic restrictions ease. Virtual events still offer everything a writer might want: intensive workshops, pitch sessions with agents, to how to market yourself and your books, discussions - there is something for everyone.

For a full list of conferences held throughout the year see Writing Conferences. During the pandemic most of these are being held virtually at reduced rates. Quite a few offer scholarships, so apply early.

Image: Briton Rivière: Una and the Lion, Wikimedia Commons

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Keep Writing Virtual Nonfiction Writers Conference. MAR/APRIL 2022 (5 weeks) meeting Wednesdays from 2 to 4PM EST. "Are you a nonfiction writer working on a memoir? For 5 weeks this spring just 6-8 writers will gather via ZOOM -- at each workshop two writers will workshop 10 to 16 pages of a work of creative nonfiction/memoir. The sessions include discussions on the business of being a writer i.e. publishing, legal issues, agents and self promotion. The Kaz Conference was founded by award winning author Donna Kaz (UN/MASKED, Memoirs of a Guerrilla Girl) and is committed to diversity. Our conference faculty, mentors and cohorts reflect an all-encompassing and equal world and our goal is to challenge, inspire and foster a writers community that continues beyond the workshop because the stories we tell become the world we live in. In this workshop you will discover what is working in your pages, where your readers have questions, and what your peers want to see more of. These responses will spark fresh ideas about how you can strengthen your story and inspire you to return to your desk to complete and publish your work. Virtual workshop tuition: $375 for 5 weeks - includes at least two reviews of your writing samples from Donna Kaz and your cohort." Will be held online. Apply by February 2, 2022.

The Furious Flower Poetry Center Collegiate Summit. March 3 - 4, 2022. Harrisonburg, VA. Open to undergraduate and graduate students from any college or university program, this three-day summit invites participants to explore how poetry reaches across geographical borders and beyond conventional literary and ideological boundaries. This year's summit attendees will explore the theme of “Power, Presence, and Performance” through workshops, panels, and discussions that examine ways of engaging audiences and maximizing the reach and impact of their words. The registration is free. 

Atlanta Writing Workshop, March 4 - 5, 2022, Atlanta, GA. "This is a special one-day “How to Get Published” writing workshop. In other words, it’s one day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome." Will be held virtually.

California Creative Writers Conference. March 4 - 6, 2022: Los Angeles, CA.  Educational and inspirational guidance from more than 40 literary agents, veteran educators, industry professionals, professional editors, and publishers in the craft and business of writing fiction, nonfiction, and screenwriting taught by Hollywood veterans. Over three days, you can learn how to take your writing to the next level and what it takes get published. 

Futurescapes. March 4 - 6, 2022: Salt Lake City, Utah. Futurescapes Workshop of Utah Valley University, is an intensive, exclusive workshop, offering writers an unparalleled chance to work with top authors and agents in speculative fiction (science fiction, horror, fantasy, paranormal). Each participant will work with three workshop faculty mentors on the first 3,000 words of their manuscript, while receiving substantive feedback on the overall structure of their work in progress and query letters. Will be held virtually.

Bay to Ocean Writers Conference. March 5, 2022: Wye Mills, Maryland. Sponsored by the Eastern Shore Writers Association. "Featuring eight tracks and over 30 sessions sure to fit all your writing needs, this year’s Bay to Ocean Writers Conference celebrates a quarter of a century of helping writers develop their craft, edit, publish, and market their writing.  This year’s sessions, all 90-minutes in length, are carefully designed to help you generate solid writing, hone your craft, and ask pointed questions from published and award-winning presenters about the process."

Redrock Creative Writing Seminar. March 5, 2022: St. George, Utah. Classes and readings in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. The faculty includes Lola Haskins, Tim Keller, and Denis Feehan.

Get Away to Write. March 8 - 13, 2022: New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Spend an inspiring week working on your memoir or poetry. Enjoy plentiful writing time, insightful feedback, homemade meals and time to relax. ach workshop will offer craft discussion, writing prompts, writing time, feedback, motivation and inspiration. By spending the entire week in one workshop, you will venture deeper into your writing, making more progress than you thought possible.

Algonkian Writers New York Pitch Conference. March 10 - 13 (online, Zoom) March 17 - 20, 2022: NY, NY. "The event focuses on the art of the novel pitch as the best method not only for communicating your work, but for having you and your work taken seriously by industry professionals. More importantly though, it is also a diagnostic method for workshopping the plot, premise, and other elements of the story to determine quality and marketability. Simply put, you cannot successfully pitch a viable commercial novel if you don't have a viable commercial novel. Our goal, therefore, is to set you on a realistic path to publication." Will be held online and in person.

Ossabaw Weekend Writer’s Retreat. March 11 - 16,  2022: Ossabaw Island, GA. Workshops and seminars led by nationally recognized faculty, and evening readings (special emphasis on ghost stories) by faculty and participants. Application deadline: January 15.

Virginia Festival of the Book, March 16 - 20, 2022. "The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past thirteen years. We have presented a captivating list of authors, ranging from international bestsellers to topical specialists to debut authors." Book exhibits, talks by authors, readings, workshops on book promotion, finding an agent, poetry, publishing, agents roundtable - you name it, this conference has it. Will be held virtually.

Writing Nature: Writing, Health, and Justice March 18 - 19, 2022: Bethlehem, PA. sponsored by the Lehigh Valley Engaged Humanities Consortium’s Writers’ Community and the Moravian College Writers’ Conference.  Keynote speaker: Porochista Khakpour. Plus additional workshops and a writers’ roundtable featuring area writers on Friday, March 27. FREE

Writing on the Door: Young Writers Conference. March 18-19, 2022: Sturgeon Bay, WI. "This conference, taking place at Sturgeon Bay High School in Sturgeon Bay, WI, is for middle school and high school students who want to explore options for becoming a writer. Sessions will include poetry, fiction, journalism, song writing, plays, and writing for games/digital media. The conference will consist of three keynote presentations with Wisconsin Poet Laureate Dasha Kelly Hamilton, internationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Cathy Grier, and award-winning children’s author John Coy. Between keynotes, students will have the opportunity to work with established writers in small, interactive groups on a variety of subjects."

Power of Narrative. March 19- 19, 2022: Boston, MA. Over 30 journalists, directors, producers and editors lead three days of lively discussions geared to advance the knowledge of narrative storytellers. Approximately 500 persons attend. Early registration is encouraged. Will be held online and in person.

Writing By Writers Boulder Generative Workshop. March 18 - 20, 2022: Boulder, Colorado. Lectures, craft talks, writing exercises and class discussions. Each participant will have the opportunity to work in a small group setting with all three faculty members.

Authors' Salon at Clockwork Alchemy. March 18 - 20, 2022: Burlingame, California. Clockwork Alchemy is the San Francisco area's own steampunk convention. Originally a part of FanimeCon, Clockwork Alchemy is now its own independent event celebrating music, makers, dancing, writing, crafting, fashion, and fun related to steampunk!

Association of Writers & Writing Programs Conference. March 23 - 26, 2022: Philadelphia, PA. "The AWP Conference & Bookfair is an essential annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers. Each year more than 12,000 attendees join our community for four days of insightful dialogue, networking, and unrivaled access to the organizations and opinion-makers that matter most in contemporary literature. The 2016 conference featured over 2,000 presenters and 550 readings, panels, and craft lectures. The bookfair hosted over 800 presses, journals, and literary organizations from around the world. AWP’s is now the largest literary conference in North America." Will be held virtually and in person.

Algonkian Novel Retreat, Sterling. Virginia, March 23 - 27, 2022. "In keeping with the spirit of this place and the goals of this retreat, you can be as goal-oriented or as hesitant in approach as you wish. You can show us your manuscript, improve your skills, clear your head, have your work read by our writer mentors, whatever works for you, whatever helps you grow and discover your vision as a writer. You discuss with us ahead of time via the Algonkian Writer Retreat Application the goals you wish to accomplish, and we'll work with you to make it happen. Do you desire a review of your short stories or flash fiction? A line edit? Do you wish to discuss the reality of the current fiction market, your novel project, plot and characters, or perhaps get feedback on the opening hook or a few sample chapters? Or would you simply like a relaxed and productive dialogue about your goals as a writer?" Registration is first come, first served.

University of North Dakota Writers Conference. March 24 - 26, 2022: Grand Forks, North Dakota. Founded in 1970 and held every year since, the UND Writers Conference is a three day event featuring six to eight authors annually. Authors ranging from Gwendolyn Brooks and August Wilson to Tommy Orange and Colson Whitehead, the UND Writers Conference is committed to community outreach, engagement, and finding ways to increase audience access to literature. The conference is free, but workshop space is limited to twenty participants; registration is first come, first served. Will be held online and in person.

Write Stuff Writers Conference. March 24 - 26, 2022: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. 20 workshops, Agent./Editor pitch sessions, marketing consults plus lunch and Keynote address, Book Fair, Flash Literature Writing Contest, Door Prizes. Featuring Juilene McKnight. Will be held virtually.

Meet the Publishers! March 26, 2022: Tulsa, OK. Meet different publishers, traditional to self-published, magazines, newspapers, etc. Learn what they are looking for and how the industry is changing. FREE.

Beall Poetry Festival. March 30 - April 1, 2022, Waco, TX. The festival features readings, panel discussions, and the Virginia Beall Ball Lecture on Contemporary Poetry. Participating poets include Todd Hearon, Vievee Francis, Ilya Kaminsky, Chad Bennett, and a Poetry Panel. All events are free and open to the public.

2022 National Black Writers Conference. March 30 - April 2, 2022, Brooklyn, NY. This year’s theme is The Beautiful Struggle: Black Writers Lighting the Way. "Conference participants will examine the ways that texts by Black writers document struggle and persistence and light the ways for overcoming obstacles and surviving in a racially constructed society. The 16th National Black Writers Conference will be a virtual public gathering of writers, readers, scholars, literary professionals, students in the United States and from a larger international community of artists and literature lovers. As a four-day online event, NBWC2022 will feature panel discussions, readings, and much more. The Conference aims to broaden the public’s appreciation of Black literature and Black life."

Annual National Undergraduate Literature Conference. March 31 - April 2, 2022: Weber State University, Ogden, UT. "Each year, nearly 200 undergraduate writers and poets throughout North America, and sometimes beyond, come to Weber State University to present their work and learn from some of the most important writers in contemporary literature." 

Writing About Writing - 11 Paying markets

One thing that writers love to talk about is writing. Whether they are successful authors, aspiring novelists, or novices, writers always have something to say about the craft - as well they should. Writing involves words, and while a painter or a composer may be relatively inarticulate, no writer can get away with a paucity of verbal expression. 

In the majority of cases, magazines that publish articles about writing want the perspective of experienced writers - those who have been published. Writing is a business as well as a calling, so these magazines are looking for advice on how to succeed at writing. But some of these publications are interested in the ordinary experiences of writers, regardless of how successful they are at the craft. The trials that writers face, both artistically and professionally, are instructive, as well as sobering. 

The following journals are looking for writing about writing. Even if you don't anticipate submitting anything to them, these publications are worth checking out for the resources and free tips.

For hundreds of paying markets, listed by genre, see Paying Markets.

(Image: Leonid Pasternak, "The Passion of Creation")

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Riddled With Arrows

“For this special issue we seek writers and artists currently working in metafiction, metapoetics / ars poetica, and / or any other genre or media which ultimately explores, examines, celebrates and / or in any other way spotlights the process and product of writing as art, particularly as it relates to modern writers, readers, and consumers.” Length: Up to 1,500 words for fiction and nonfiction, up to 3 poems Payment: $25. Deadline: March 11, 2022.

Writing Bad

Writing Bad was founded to be a resource to writers of all skill-levels. "Our goal is to offer resources to enable writers to further develop their knowledge and writing ability so that they may better achieve their writing goals. To do this, we publish writing advice articles on our website under the following categories: Prose, Poetry, and Marketing & Grammar. We are seeking writing advice articles to publish on our website. The articles will be published under the author’s name (or pen-name, if they so choose), along with a short short author bio about the author. Author bios are allowed up to one external link to an author website or an author’s social media page." Authors must have a minimum of two published essays, stories, articles, and/or books. Length: 800 to 2,000 words. Payment: 1 cent/word.

Writers Weekly

"WritersWeekly.com focuses on “selling” the written word. We do not seek articles on how to write. Rather, we seek articles on how to make more money doing what you love….writing! We are also interested in other forms of home-based businesses and self-employment that may result from writing, such as self-publishing, corporate writing, etc. All ideas that help writers support themselves performing the work they love are warmly welcomed, provided we haven’t covered the topic on the past two years." Payment:  $60 U.S. on acceptance via PayPal for first rights only ($30 U.S. for reprints).

The Writer’s Chronicle 

The Writer's Chronicle wants essays on the craft of writing. Length: 2,500 to 5,000 words. All craft essays must analyze an element of creative writing. They should contain examples to illustrate the writerly advice they offer. Using more than one author to illustrate your analysis is recommended.

In addition, the Chronicle accepts interviews. Length: 3,000 to 5,000 words. "We feature interviews with well-known and up-and-coming authors in the genres of fiction, short fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. In the past, we have published interviews with such authors as Nikki Finney, Yusef Komunyakaa, Aimee Nezhukumatathil, Vijay Seshadri, Gregory Pardlo, and many others. We especially appreciate interviews that include discussions of writing craft, the evolution of the author’s own work, and literary influences and inspirations. We prefer interviews that have been revised heavily in the interest of accuracy, concision, and style. We are interested in an interview that represents a writer as well as possible in a somewhat personable manner. We only publish interviews that have been approved in proofs by their subjects." Payment: $18 per 100 words for accepted manuscripts. 

BookLife

BookLife is seeking pitches from the BookLife community. "If you are an indie author, publishing professional, or serve another role within the book world, we invite you to submit proposals for guest columns to appear in Publishers Weekly, the BookLife Report, and on the PW and BookLife websites. All authors are compensated. We are specifically looking for articles that concern the craft of writing and editing, the experience of self-publishing, and the indie writing community. Feel free to get creative! Please submit your pitch and resume to booklifeeditor@booklife.com with the subject line "Write for BookLife."

Wordworks

Note: Wordworks is open to BC and Yukon writers only. 

"We publish three full-colour issues per year. Each issue goes out to Federation of BC Writers members as well as to schools, libraries, businesses, and other organizations across BC and Yukon. We are always striving to increase our readership and the reach of our stories.

WordWorks pays $125 per page for original articles, paid upon publication. Articles range from 500 words for one page to 1,100 words for a two-page spread. We will consider longer features as well. These rates are subject to change in future issues. Have you previously written an article or blog post that fits our theme? We pay $50 for selected reprints." Issues are themed.

Lit MagNews

"Are you a writer and/or journal editor with something to say? Do you have a unique strategy of finding lit mags to submit to? Do you do a special ritual for every rejection (that somehow magically works)? Are you an editor who desperately wants to tell writers to please stop doing this one thing? Are there things you want to help people with, discuss, gripe about, seek clarification on, when it comes to literary magazines?

I am excited to announce a new feature of this site, which will include articles from working writers and editors. These pieces could be serious. They could be instructive. They could be funny and absurd. Anything and everything is welcome. "If you’ve got something to say or explore about lit mags, or if you’ve got an idea you want to float by me, send it along! Becky.Tuch@gmail.com. Feel free to email with questions." All writers will be paid. $75

The Victorian Writer 

This Australian magazine publishes poems ($70), and articles of 600 words ($100) and 1200 words ($200) in the print edition with particular interest in the craft of writing and the writing life. Note: Pitches only. Issues are themed. See deadlines.

Bistreaux 

"We’re looking for posts about writing, literature, agents, publishing, hangover recipes—anything to do with the craft and business of writing. Topics must be relevant to our audience, which consists of sophisticated journeyman writers and poets. Length should ordinarily be limited to 1000 words. Reprints are welcome. We’ll provide a link to the contributor’s most recent publication." Payment varies.

Funds for Writers

Funds for Writers seeks submissions “on earning a living as a writer.” Articles should fall between 550 and 650 words. Payment: “via PayPal or Venmo – $60 for unpublished original articles; $20 for reprints.”

Women on Writing

"WOW! welcomes queries from its audience of women writers. Please make sure you’ve read through our articles on the home page to get an idea of the style and tone of our publication before submitting a query. Remember, each e-zine issue focuses on a theme. Articles range anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 words—whatever length is necessary to cover the topic. Pay is arranged between the writer and editor for the piece, but most articles pay $50 or $75. In-depth pieces that require many different sources to cover the topic and have a higher word count pay $100 or $150."

4 New Literary Agents Seeking Fantasy, Horror, Sci-fi, Historical & Upmarket Fiction, Thrillers, Kidlit, Graphic Novels, and Memoir

Here are four new agents actively seeking clients. New agents are a boon to writers. They are actively building their lists, and will go the extra mile for their clients.

Yona Levin is looking for children’s books, including young adult and middle grade fiction and non-fiction. Jazmia Young  is interested in representing children’s books, picture books through YA, focusing on middle-grade fiction/non-fiction with the goal of amplifying underrepresented voices and experiences.

Rachel Neely is looking for "unforgettable and thought-provoking fiction, the kind that leaves your mind racing uncontrollably, hours after turning the last page." Jennifer Chevais is currently building her list of authors specializing in fantasy, science fiction, and horror, but she also has a soft spot for thrillers, upmarket fiction, memoir, graphic novels, and many more.

Always check the agency website and agent bio before submitting. Agents can switch agencies or close their lists, and submission requirements can change. 

NOTE: Don't submit to two agents at the same agency simultaneously. If one rejects you, you may then submit to another.

You can find a full list of agents actively seeking new clients here: Agents Seeking Clients. 

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Ms. Rachel Neely of Mushens Entertainment (UK) 

Rachel Neely began her publishing career in 2016 at Avon books, a division of HarperCollins, shortly after completing a Master of Studies in English and American Literature at the University of Oxford. Rachel then moved to Hachette’s Quercus books, where she stayed for over three years, as an Editorial Assistant and, latterly, Assistant Editor. Rachel worked on both reading group titles and the crime and thriller list, assisting on multiple Sunday Times bestsellers such as The Flatshare and The Girl Before. Her first acquisition, Still Lives, a literary thriller, was chosen for the Reese Witherspoon Hello Sunshine book club. In May 2020, Rachel was appointed Commissioning Editor at Trapeze, an imprint of Orion, with a remit of acquiring conversation-starting novels, focusing on upmarket fiction and literary-commercial crossover.

What she is seeking: "I'm looking for unforgettable and thought-provoking fiction, the kind that leaves your mind racing uncontrollably, hours after turning the last page."

How to submit: Email submissions@mushens-entertainment.com Your submission email should include: A clear subject line eg. Fiction Submission: TITLE OF YOUR WORK, Addressed to the specific agent you would like to consider it, Your cover letter in the body of the email, An attachment of your synopsis, A PDF or Word document of your novel containing either: The first three chapters OR The first 10-15,000 words OR First 50 pages.

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Ms. Yona Levin of Fletcher & Company 

Yona Levin received her B.A. in English and Political Science from Wellesley College before returning to her native NYC to start her publishing career at Foundry Literary + Media. Now at Fletcher & Company, she works with Melissa Chinchillo in foreign rights and assists Peter Steinberg with his titles. 

What she is seeking: Yona is building her own list of children’s books, including young adult and middle grade fiction and non-fiction. She likes contemporary adventure stories, fantasy that is off the beaten path, and clever writing that plays with format and reader expectations in new and interesting ways.

How to submit: To query, please send a letter, brief synopsis, and the first 5-10 pages of the manuscript/proposal pasted into the body of the email to info@fletcherandco.com. You should indicate the agent you are addressing the query to in the subject line. Please do not include email attachments with your initial query, as they will be deleted.

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Ms. Jazmia Young of Curtis Brown, Ltd. 

Jazmia Young is an associate agent at Curtis Brown Ltd. She received her bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing at the City College of New York and was a graduate of the Publishing Certificate Program at CCNY. Jazmia is also the Administrative Assistant of the Association of American Literary Agents.

What she is seeking: She is interested in representing children’s books, picture books through YA, focusing on middle-grade fiction/non-fiction with the goal of amplifying underrepresented voices and experiences. She particularly loves stories with friendship ties, complicated family dynamics, and grief or loss. Being a New York native, anything based in the great NYC has her heart. 

How to submit: Please email queries to jky@cbltd.com with the first 10 pages of your manuscript in the body of the email with QUERY in the subject line. 

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Ms. Jennifer Chevais of The Rights Factory 

Jennifer Chevais is currently building her list of authors specialising in fantasy, science fiction, and horror, but she also has a soft spot for thrillers, upmarket fiction, memoir, graphic novels, and many more. Jennifer’s experience includes freelance acquisition reading and translating for a French publisher as well as nearly a decade in advertising.

What she is seeking: Fantasy, Horror, Science Fiction, Historical, Thriller, Action, Upmarket (book club potential), Graphic Novels, and Memoir.

How to submit: Use her form HERE.

4 Literary Agents Seeking Commercial Fiction, Literary Fiction, Memoir, Sci-fi, Picture Books and more

Here are four agents from reputable agencies actively seeking clients. Jessica Kasmer-Jacobs is interested in literary fiction, serious non-fiction  memoir, historical fiction and picture books. Anna Webber wants fiction and nonfiction. Mike Nardullo enjoys literary fiction and upmarket science fiction. Tim Moore represents Food and Drink; Humor, History; Memoir; Business; Biography; Health and Wellness; Self-improvement; Photography; Literary Fiction; Commercial Fiction.

Always check the agency website and agent bio before submitting. Agents can switch agencies or close their lists, and submission requirements can change. 

NOTE: Don't submit to two agents at the same agency simultaneously. If one rejects you, you may then submit to another.

You can find a full list of agents actively seeking new clients here: Agents Seeking Clients.

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Ms. Anna Webber of United Agents, LLP (UK)

Anna Webber grew up in Austria. She studied Comparative Literature in Paris and worked for a French publisher before moving to London to work in foreign rights at Andrew Nurnberg Associates. She has been a literary agent since 2005, first at PFD and then at United Agents, where her list currently includes prize-winning poets, novelists and writers of literary non-fiction. She also represents Bill Clegg's clients in the UK. In 2015 she was shortlisted for Agent of the Year at the Bookseller Industry Awards. She speaks fluent English, German and French.

What she is seeking: Fiction and nonfiction.

How to submit: Please send a short synopsis and a 10,000-word excerpt for fiction, or a concise proposal for non-fiction to awebber@unitedagents.co.uk 

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Ms. Jessica Kasmer-Jacobs of The Deborah Harris Agency (Israel) 

Jessica received her BA in English Literature from New York University and her MPhil in Irish Literature from Trinity College Dublin. Before moving to Israel, she was an editor at the Wall Street Journal Book Review. She has previously worked at the Joy Harris Literary Agency in New York, The Irish Jewish Museum in Dublin, and Blue Man Group in Boston. 

​What she is seeking: Jessica is interested in literary fiction, serious non-fiction  memoir, historical fiction and picture books.

How to submit: See submission guidelines HERE.

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Mr. Michael Nardullo of Levine Greenberg Rostan Literary Agency

Mike joined LGR as Foreign Rights Director and Agent in December, 2019 and brings nearly two decades of experience from various positions in international book publishing. He began his career in the subsidiary rights department of The Penguin Group, where he was mentored by veteran rights sellers, learned the nuances of foreign deals and contracts and developed relationships with co-agents and book scouts, many of whom he continues to work with today. He left Penguin to manage the foreign rights department at The New Press, and then joined Maria B. Campbell Associates as a Senior Literary Scout, consulting for leading international publishers, and for Netflix. After nine busy years of scouting, Mike returned to rights selling, first at Foundry Literary + Media, where he also took on several clients as a domestic agent, and now at LGR. Mike graduated from SUNY Albany with a degree in English/Creative Writing, which turned out to be a useful major after all. He grew up in Sleepy Hollow, NY, the undisputed Halloween capital of the world, and lives in Brooklyn.

What he is seeking: Mike enjoys literary fiction that feels daring and fresh, especially in its use of language, perspective and structure, and nonfiction that teaches us something new about our place in the world, from our relationship to work and technology, to our understanding of our brains and selves. He also likes upmarket science fiction with a philosophical twist and biographies of his musical heroes.

How to submit: Use the form HERE.

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Mr. Tim Moore of The Rights Factory (CANADA)

Tim Moore represents adult non-fiction and fiction. He is interested in non-fiction which has a clear platform and fiction which has a distinctive voice. Tim has worked in publishing for over twenty-five years and has held various positions, including Publicist, Marketing Director, Head of Sales, Editorial Director and Publisher. He holds an BA in Philosophy from Dalhousie University and a MBA from Bayes Business School, University of London. His mentoring includes working with the Creative Mentor Network and LDN Apprenticeships. He is a current member of The Book Society, London.

What he is seeking: Food and Drink; Humor, History; Memoir; Business; Biography; Health and Wellness; Self-improvement; Photography; Literary Fiction; Commercial Fiction.

How to submit: Use his query form HERE.

6 New Agents Seeking Scifi, Fantasy, YA, Memoir, Literary Fiction, Nonfiction and more

Here are six new literary agents seeking clients. New agents are a boon to writers. They are actively building their lists, and will go the extra mile for their clients.

Leana Rupp is seeking detailed characters who grow through difficult circumstances or grow closer to their friends in the process, she will want to read your manuscript. Also, a story rich in culture, magical lore, or symbolism is a sure way to captivate her attention.

Abigail Varnado is looking for Gothic Literature, Historical Fiction , Mysteries, Young Adult Sci-Fi and Fantasy, and anything else fantastical or paranormal. 

Mona Kanin is seeking smart, resonating projects including literary fiction, memoirs that read like fiction, & non-fiction for adults that speaks to today's cultural currents

Ismita Hussain is seeking literary fiction, health-related non-fiction, YA, and short story collections. 

Elisa Saphier is open to most genres, as long as the novel or memoir is well-written, but she is partial to character-heavy stories that tell her something about herself or the world around her. 

Sarah Fisk is currently accepting submissions for young adults, middle grade, adult romance, and adult SFF (no hardcore horror).

Always check the agency website and agent bio before submitting. Agents can switch agencies or close their lists, and submission requirements can change. 

NOTE: Don't submit to two agents at the same agency simultaneously. If one rejects you, you may then submit to another.

You can find a full list of agents actively seeking new clients here: Agents Seeking Clients.

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Ms. Ismita Hussain of Great Dog Literary

Ismita is a Georgia native and graduate of Emory University, where she studied Human Health and Italian. During college, she also worked for various Atlanta area hospitals in departments ranging from neonatal to geriatric care. In her Desi household, she grew up speaking Bangla, Hindi, and Urdu.

What she is seeking: Ismita is seeking literary fiction, health-related non-fiction, YA, and short story collections. Some of her favorite authors are Flannery O’Connor, Cormac McCarthy, Oscar Wilde, and Tom Perrotta. Ismita is especially drawn to fiction with a Southern setting, gritty realist writing, and any books that explore health or disability. Ultimately though, she’s a sucker for writing with a great sense of humor.

How to submit: Use her form HERE.

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Sarah N. Fisk of Tobias Agency 

Sarah Fisk is a former mechanical engineer who made the switch to publishing in 2011. They have worked in the publishing industry as an editorial assistant, author's assistant, publicist, and art director. Sarah is a former Pitch Wars mentor, board member, and Agent Liaison. They host the podcast Queries, Qualms, & Quirks and have a passion for spreadsheets.


What they are seeking: Sarah Fisk is currently accepting submissions for young adult, middle grade, adult romance, adult SFF (no hardcore horror). Particular areas of interest include atmospheric fantasies, speculative mysteries, books that challenge societal norms, especially gender norms. They also have a special interest in stories featuring queer characters and those with disability, neurodiversity, chronic illness, or mental health challenges. Other areas of interest are small or midwestern town settings, and complicated sibling relationships.

How to submit: Use their form HERE.

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Ms. Leana Rupp of The Booker Albert Literary Agency

Leana Rupp graduated with a BA in Professional Writing from York College of Pennsylvania and has worked on many freelance projects while assisting in content editing for various clients. When the mundane world becomes too dull, Leana looks for an escape to live vicariously through characters found in romance, fantasy, mystery, and fiction.

What she is seeking: If your story has detailed characters who grow through difficult circumstances or grow closer to their friends in the process, she will want to read your manuscript. Also, a story rich in culture, magical lore, or symbolism is a sure way to captivate her attention.

How to submit: Send your queries to: query[at]thebookeralbertagency[dot]com.

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Ms. Abigail Varnado of The Booker Albert Literary Agency

Abigail Varnado holds a BA in English from Louisiana State University and an MA in Publishing from Rosemont College. She has held a few editorial and content creation roles and is always looking for new books to read and explore. 

What she is seeking: Alongside a cup of tea or coffee, she enjoys reading Gothic Literature, Historical Fiction (open to several different eras and countries), Mysteries (that keep her on the edge of her seat), Young Adult Sci-Fi and Fantasy (with strong world building and a lot of angst), and anything else fantastical or paranormal. Books with folklore and fairytales, in particular, really turn her head as she enjoys learning more about cultures through their stories and beliefs—whether it be a spooky tale, a romance, or otherwise. Abigail is looking for something a little edgy and raw that speaks to the emotions, but also something witty and intelligent. She is drawn to strong, clever characters with complex emotional development and is drawn to well-developed/dramatic plotlines that could either end in happiness or complete disaster. The drastic opposites of the journey to the light versus the dissent into madness have always been a favorite for her.

How to submit: Send your queries to: query[at]thebookeralbertagency[dot]com.

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Mona Kanin of Great Dog Literary

Inspired by imagination and content creation, Mona spent 25 years designing, writing and making non-fiction media for broadcast, non-broadcast, print, and the web. Mona helped define the audience, the medium, and the message for The Human Genome Project, Weston Woods, PBS, several of the Discovery Channels, and others. Her work won top national awards. Before she was a producer, Mona was a librarian at the Boston Public Library & for several years managed a small book shop in D.C. She's always sought to forge connections—between visuals and words, trust and the collaborative process, content and authenticity/emotion. She believes in the power of books to create more empathic beings. 

What she is seeking: Mona is seeking smart, resonating projects including literary fiction, memoirs that read like fiction, & non-fiction for adults that speaks to today's cultural currents. She's closed to non-referral PB and MG fiction queries at least until Spring, 2022, when she'll re-evaluate. Authenticity/own voices always essential.

How to submit: Use her form HERE.

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Ms. Elisa Saphier of MacGregor & Luedeke Literary

From her first job in a library, to being the editor-in-chief of her high school literary magazine, to working in four bookstores (and owning one), Elisa has always managed to surround herself with books and writers. Elisa long dreamed of opening her own bookstore and in 2012, after her wife decreed that no more bookshelves were allowed in their house, she took the leap. Elisa and her bookstore, Another Read Through, quickly became known as champions of local writers and local small publishers, and as community builders. She works toward equity in publishing and in writers’ career development with the nonprofit she is co-launching in 2022, Amplify Writers. She believes that books and writers have important things to say, and she wants to help writers get their work out there, and for readers to find them.

What she is seeking: As a reader and as an agent, she is open to most genres, as long as the novel or memoir is well-written, but she is partial to character-heavy stories that tell her something about herself or the world around her. She is hoping specifically to represent marginalized writers and their stories, doing her small part toward equalizing the publishing playing field. She is almost never interested in religious or experimental writing, but is otherwise open to being won over by just about any piece of excellent writing. Note: The agency is only open to nonfiction at this time.

How to submit: Please read their submission guidelines HERE.