Scape: “Simply put, Scape is a fantasy, science fiction and horror e-zine with a young adult (YA) focus. We seek the best new short YA speculative stories, poetry and art. We also publish news and reviews on books, movies and trends in the speculative YA world.”
And while you’re at it, check out this excellent post on submitting YA short fiction: The YA Highway Quickstart Guide to Submitting Short Fiction
Short Stories: 10 Tips for Creative Writers – “Writing short stories means beginning as close to the conclusion as possible, and grabbing the reader in the very first moments. Conserve characters and scenes, typically by focusing on just one conflict. Drive towards a sudden, unexpected revelation.”
The Tony Hillerman Prize & Hillerman Short Story Contest – “What we are looking for: Your best mystery short story, set primarily in New Mexico. We’re seeking compelling, original, well-written stories that have not been previously published.”
The Short Story Website – “Welcome to Story, the campaign to celebrate the short story. We believe that the short story is one of the most exciting and important literary forms, that can and should reach the widest possible readership. We believe that the short story matters.”
Announcing the First Absolute Write Speculative Fiction Short Story Anthology! – “We’re looking for a few great (short) stories…”
Crashtest – “Crashtest is a magazine by and for high school students. If you are currently a student in grades nine through twelve, we want to hear from you.”
How to Take Your Short Stories to the Next Level – “I decided to round up several excellent articles on writing short stories. From an interview with one of the top short story writers of today to plot advice to how to sell short fiction, these articles will help you take your stories to the next level.”
A YA anthology of Japan-related fiction to support teens affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11, 2011 – Deadline is Agust 15.
Untapped–a new imprint and magazine for Christian teens and tweens from Written World Communications–is on the hunt for outstanding fiction and non-fiction writers.
In the following interview, Executive Editor Christina Harris (Untapped.mag@gmail.com) discusses what she’s looking for, her favorite writers, and plans for the publication of the imprint’s first novel and magazine.
What do you look for in a story? Are there any specific types of stories or plots that you wish writers would send you?
Strong author voice, logical and original plots fit for the YA audience, and real characters. I’m a huge fan of YA speculative and I wish there were more out there in that genre that are better than the average or just non-occult. Saying that, I also would love to receive pretty much anything, be it set as wild west or contemporary, that fits my criteria that I mentioned before. It is definitely hard to find.
Why would you pass on a story?
Weak voice, bad writing style, “bunny trails” in the plot, lack of conflict in the story, stories that are “written down” for YA teens (I cannot tell you how many times I’ve seen submissions that are geared toward too young of an audience), and the immoral depicted as good. (Please don’t send me something about a Christian Vampire or Witch! Although there can be evil vampires and witches if it’s part of the plot.)
What do you enjoy the most about editing?
Exploring another soul’s unique God given gift. I get to be the first to review something that someone poured their heart into and I can help them live their dream of getting the manuscript published. It also makes that the hardest part of my job here because if I find I can’t publish it, I (because I also love to write fiction) know how it is to devote so much time and then find out your story won’t take off or that the entire novel needs a rewrite.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why? Favorite short stories? Is there a story (or two) that was completely unforgettable… changed your life or outlook in some way?
Even though I’ve said I love speculative fiction, there is one book that always sticks in my mind that is not speculative at all: The Blue Castle by L.M. Montegomery. Most people haven’t heard of this novel, but I picked that little book up and couldn’t put it down until the end. Set in the early twentieth century, the story is about Delancy Stirling who is 29 and an old maid. She never really lived life. One day when she finds out she only has a year to live, she throws caution to the wind and even asks a man to marry her! I laughed, got angry with the characters who treated her unfairly, and cried for Delancy during her adventures. The ending is absolutely beautiful!
Anything new coming to Untapped this year?
We’re hoping to release for the first time a magazine and also publish our first novel.
A new short story collection from Tamora Pierce means it’s time to take a break from writing and get busy reading:
Tortall and Other Lands by Tamora Pierce: From Amazon – “Collected here for the first time are all of the tales from the land of Tortall, featuring both previously unknown characters as well as old friends. Filling some gaps of time and interest, these stories, some of which have been published before, will lead Tammy’s fans, and new readers into one of the most intricately constructed worlds of modern fantasy.”
And while you’re at it, check out these other short story collections for teens:
Drollerie Press’s Playthings of the Gods (includes my story “Naiad”): From Black Sun – “Playthings of the Gods is one of Drollerie Press’ strongest anthologies to date, filled with tales both heart wrenching, and empowering. One thing that really ties the anthology together, aside from the theme, is the very lyrical prose. While each author has a style of their own, some stories compliment each other so beautifully you would swear it was intentional.”
As long as I’m doing a little self-promotion then take a look at my collection of short stories from Sam’s Dot Publishing, The Curse of Blackhawk Bay – “Around Lake Trillium strange events occur. Children disappear, ghosts appear, and a man bursts into flames. The lake itself is inhabited by something vast and dark. With each event there appears a crow–but what does it want? Who will be next to confront the secret of the lake and of Blackhawk Bay?”
Bloody Horowitz by Anthony Horowitz: From Booklist – “With the blood spatters from Horowitz Horror (2006) and More Horowitz Horror (2007) nearly dry, in steps the titular tale spinner bringing another 14 tales of the macabre.”
The Poison Eaters and Other Stories by Holly Black: From Kirkus Reviews – “Black’s first story collection assures her place as a modern fantasy master…. Sly humor, vivid characters, each word perfectly chosen: These stories deserve reading again and again.”
The Kissing Game: Short Stories by Aidan Chambers: From Amazon – ” These provocative stories beautifully lend themselves to discussion, and once again Chambers treats us to his fiercely intelligent, finely crafted prose and his incisive understanding of the wonderings of young people on the verge of adulthood.”
Started in 1980, Leading Edge Magazine has taken their speculative fiction worldwide with international contributors and readers. Leading Edge–based at Brigham Young University–publishes established authors like Orson Scott Card, Dave Wolverton, Brandon Sanderson, and Dan Wells, yet still welcomes newer writers.
In this interview, Marketing Director Jessica Landry talks about what the magazine is looking for and plans for its 30th anniversary.
What do you look for in a story? Are there any specific types of stories or plots that you wish writers would send you?
We get a lot of serious science fiction and fantasy. We like to have a good mix, so we wouldn’t mind seeing more humor pieces; but we’re not specifically looking for humor. If a story is clean, creative, and solidly written, we probably won’t pass it by.
Why would you pass on a story?
Leading Edge does not accept stories that include sex, profanity, or excessive violence, or that belittle traditional family values and religion.
If we need to decide between two stories that are equally well written, we will probably choose the one that best draws the reader in emotionally. We want to feel what you are writing.
What do you enjoy the most about editing Leading Edge?
Leading Edge is a student run publication at Brigham Young University. It’s a great way for students to get involved in the production of a magazine. We have so many resources here. Plus, we get to read wonderful works of science fiction and fantasy. Working here is amazing.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why? Favorite short stories? Is there a story (or two) that was completely unforgettable… changed your life or outlook in some way?
Some of our favorite authors include Orson Scott Card, David Farland, Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, and L. E. Modesitt, Jr. All of them have donated stories to Leading Edge over the years, and several of them worked on the journal themselves.
We have been privileged to have many excellent stories over the years. Some of our favorites in the last few years include “They Scream When They Hurt,” from Issue 56; “Mulled With Sky-Souls,” from Issue 57; “Redemption Songs,” from Issue 58, and “Cryonic Sushi,” from Issue 60.
Anything new coming to Leading Edge this year?
It’s Leading Edge’s 30th anniversary! For the special 30th anniversary issue you can look for stories and articles from famous authors, including Dave Wolverton, Dan Wells, and Brandon Sanderson!
Stories For Children Magazine, an ezine for 3 to 12 year-olds, knows how to make every word count. Each issue brims with a wide selection of fiction and nonfiction stories, ranging from beaches and goldfish to watermelons and zoos (check out the June/July issue to see the stories connected to these topics).
In the following interview, Fiction Assistant Editor Roxanne Werner, reviews what she’s looking for, reasons she would pass on a story, and SFC’s plans for the future. Roxanne also offers writing advice and insight through her blog and critique services.
And from personal experience, I can say that Roxanne is a pleasure to work with. My story, Better Than A Zillion Zoos, appears in the June/July issue, and her thoughtful suggestions made the final version a tighter, better story.
What do you look for in a story? Are there any specific types of stories or plots that you wish writers would send you?
Strong believable characters always draw me into a story. As a reader, I want someone I can root for. Then the writer has to give the characters trouble. Too often, I see stories without conflict or tension. They are flat because the characters have nothing to challenge them and nothing at stake.
I would love to see more contemporary multicultural stories. We live in a global world, but I do not see many stories reflecting the great variety of cultures. We also receive many more stories for our youngest readers–3-6 year olds. My wish list would include more submissions for our 10-12 year old category. I prefer to see ‘human’ characters. I see too many ‘talking animals’ representing children, especially for our youngest readers.
Why would you pass on a story?
A lesson thinly disguised as a story will be an automatic no for me. A good story may contain a take away message, but it must be a story first. Preachy, heavy-handed stories turn off editors and readers alike. I will also pass on stories with adult main characters, stories lacking a plot and conflict, episodic stories and descriptive vignettes.
What do you enjoy the most about editing?
I love when I find an original story with potential. It is exciting to work with the author to bring out the best in their work. At Stories For Children Magazine, we encourage new writers and it’s so much fun to watch a story evolve as we work on it together. My job is not to rewrite the author’s work, but to ask questions and make suggestions to help the author develop his or her own story. Even when I reject a story, I always try to give the writer a reason, so they can work on their story, grow as a writer and perhaps submit it elsewhere successfully.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why? Favorite short stories? Is there a story (or two) that was completely unforgettable… changed your life or outlook in some way?
My all time favorite author is Tolkien. I read The Lord of the Rings in middle school and have not found a fantasy to match it since. I’m still in awe of what a complex world he created including languages, alphabets, calendars etc. For personal reading, I enjoy epic fantasy writers like Tolkien and David Eddings.
I read many non-adult stories to keep in touch with the market. One of my favorite middle grade writers is Andrew Clements. I love the humor and voice of his book Frindle. I also enjoyed Notes from the Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick. Jordan can make you laugh and cry in the same scene. Laurie Halse Anderson is a terrific writer in the young adult genre. I met her at a writer’s conference where her presentation inspired everyone.
When I read a good story, the characters stay with me. It’s as though I’ve made a new friend. I often will go back and reread stories I love to enjoy the character’s company again. I can’t point to a particular story that changed my life. I think reading has changed my life. Books have opened me up to new ideas and made me think. And as a writer, reading is like breathing. You have to read before you can write.
Anything new coming to SFC this year?
SFC has continued to evolve every year, developing new ways to entertain our readers and provide services to our writers. This year we reached one of our goals by becoming a paying market for our contributors. SFC could not have accomplished all that we have without our wonderful writers and their stories. We also launched the World of Ink blog talk radio network in April and are working on a show that will be called Kids Speak Out World with Virginia and her son Seth as co-hosts. SFC remains dedicated to providing a family friendly environment where children can be entertained, informed and develop an appreciation for the magical world of ink.
Besides offering quality stories for our audience, SFC strives to nurture new writers and illustrators. We continue to expand the services we make available to them. Many of our editors offer critiquing, proofreading and editorial services. We will be offering online writing workshops for writers. We also have World of Ink Tours and book trailer services to help writers reach a larger audience with their published books.
– Library Blogs for Teen Patrons: A handy list of blogs to use for promotion and to see what’s being read in teen lit.
-Celebrating the short story (a little late): May was National Short Story Month… Don’t worry–I missed it too. But it’s never too late to celebrate: check out this offering from NPR .
-For those of you who like to keep it brief, here’s a list of flash fiction markets (older YA through adult) from Flash Fiction Chronicles .
-England’s The Guardian asks: Is the short story really the novel’s poor relation?
-Along the same lines: Hunger Mountain’s Claire Guyton blogs: No, You Do NOT Have To Write A Novel: A Celebration of the Short Story and the Short Story Writer
–Juniper Berry Story Contest (for ages 9-14): From the site — “Juniper Berry is a story about a girl trapped in a modern-day fairy tale: a world that is both terrifying and enticing. After you read the first two chapters, write your own story of terror and temptation in 500 to 1500 words. Make your story appropriate for kids. The first sentence should start with “Mother and father aren’t quite right.”
Silver Blade wraps its speculative fiction in vivid graphics, matching the writing for creativity and enveloping readers in imaginary worlds. The ezine layers its offerings with fiction–poetry, short stories, and serialized novels–that touch on almost every element of fantasy and sci-fi then tops the package with advice for writers.
And if that isn’t enough, Silver Blade, in conjunction with its associate site Silver Pen, has started Kids ‘Magination with writing games and stories for kids who love to write. Whew!
In this interview, Fiction Editor Sue Babcock, talks about Silver Blade’s plans for the future, her editorial preferences, and some of her favorite authors.
What do you look for in a story? Are there any specific types of stories or plots that you wish writers would send you?
Silver Blade loves stories about swords and warriors, and about dragons and all sorts of imaginary creatures. We also love urban fantasy and science fiction. The stories need to be complete stories, regardless of their length, with a beginning, middle and end, with character development, with conflict and resolution, with rising action, and with all the other components of great stories. We do not accept stories with gratuitous violence or explicit sex. Our site is suitable for older teens and adults. Our favorite length stories are between 2500 and 4000 words, although we accept shorter and longer. However, often the shorter stories do not to have the completeness we are seeking.
Why would you pass on a story?
We pass on stories for the same reasons many publications do – incomplete story, poor characterization, lack of tension, lack of originality, nothing changes in the story. We also pass on stories written in a heavy passive voice. Excessive (and by excessive I mean more than one per page) grammar, spelling and punctuation errors indicate to me that the writer didn’t care enough to proof-read or workshop the story. If the errors become annoyingly distractive, we’ll pass on the story.
What do you enjoy the most about editing Silver Blade?
I love reading the wide variety of story submissions we receive, and I love working with the authors. Occasionally we find a story we love, but that has a glaring fault (such as a passive voice or a weak ending). These stories we are willing to work with the author to help him or her polish up the story. One of my greatest pleasures is to work through the issues with a receptive author, discussing changes, looking for better ways of saying something. I love this interaction with the authors, I love thinking that maybe I helped someone, made a story stronger, and made people smile when they see their stories published.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why?
Bernard Cornwell because he knows what he is talking about, he knows the history and the weapons and the way wars were fought. His descriptions astonish me in their detail.
Michael Gear and Kathleen O’Neal Gear because they also do their research. Their stories are full of possibilities and contrasting good and evil.
James Clavell because his stories are lush, full of feelings and people I grow to care very much about. His stories take risks and have a depth and connection I love.
Jonathan Kellerman because he knows evil and is willing to risk everything with his main character to conquer the evil he finds in people’s minds.
Anything new coming to Silver Blade this year?
Silver Blade is operated through the non-profit writing association of Silver Pen. We recently decided that having children’s and adults’ story in the same online magazine was difficult because of the limitation it imposed on the adult stories. We could not separate the children’s section from the rest of the site. Even though we do not publish gratuity violence or explicit sex, we wanted to allow more adult-themed stories.
We have now made Silver Blade “PG-13” to “R”. To fill the gap left behind for younger children, Silver Pen is developing a new site, Kids ‘Magination ,for helping and publishing young writers. In addition, Silver Blade is developing anthologies of their past issues. The sales of these anthologies help fund Silver Pen.
In Sowing Seeds: Writing for the Christian Children’s Market author Kathleen Muldoon shares her years of writing experience, offering advice for both seasoned and novice writers.
A retired journalist, Kathleen has authored sixteen books in the educational and Christian markets as well as numerous magazine articles and stories for children and adults. She’s also an instructor for the Institute of Children’s Literature and various continuing education programs.
In addition, she finds time to pen a column for Action magazine and contribute as a regional writer for Guideposts. When not writing, she enjoys playing with her literary feline, Walter, and her uneducated but adorable parakeet, Abraham.
In the following interview, she discusses what drew her to Christian markets, gives tips to new writers, and talks about the rewards of Christian writing:
Why did you decide to write Sowing Seeds?
Last year (2010), an editor from E & & Publishing approached me and asked if I’d be interested in writing a book for this niche market. I had submitted a manuscript to her which she could not use, but when she saw my publishing resume, she thought I might be the right person to write such a book and she invited me to submit a proposal. Fortunately, she accepted my proposal, and Sowing Seeds: Writing for the Christian Children’s Market, was born—and launched later that year.
What drew you to writing for Christian markets and specifically for children? How did you get your start?
I had written quite a bit for the adult Christian market. When I decided to write for the children’s market (in 1989—before some of you were born!), I was delighted to discover the world of Christian children’s literature. As I child, I once received a Christian children’s magazine subscription as a gift. I treasured every issue! It’s long since ceased publication, but as I got more into writing for children in general, I began sending for sample Christian children’s magazines so I could familiarize myself with just what these publishers looked for in the pieces they published. I made my first story sale to a wonderful little Catholic magazine, My Friend, in 1990. Sadly, this magazine, too, ceased publication in 2009. But, they still have a book publishing division (Pauline Books & Media), and I’ve authored two books for them and had one of my stories included in an anthology.
Any words of wisdom for beginning writers?
Perfect your craft, be persistent, know your audience (Christian children), and study the markets.
What Christian children’s magazines would you recommend for short-story writers and why?
I like Pockets—it is a themed magazine, meaning each issue revolves around a particular theme, so you’ve already got a “leg up” knowing what those themes will be in advance (the theme lists are available on the website); in addition, they have two stories per issue, one for younger readers and one for intermediate (9-12) year old readers. They also have an annual fiction competition.
What is the most rewarding aspect of writing for Christian markets?
I love the idea that I can share my faith, either through fiction or nonfiction, when writing for this market. I consider it a ministry, a way of giving back and sharing the gift of writing that the Lord has given me. I especially like targeting children, who have just begun their faith journeys and are most open to learning ways they can be like Jesus.
The publisher continues its mission to find unique voices with Wyvern Magazine, an ezine for teen fiction. In this interview, editor Holly Stacey talks about what she’s looking for, her favorite authors, and what’s new at Wyvern.
What do you look for in a story? Are there any specific types of stories or plots that you wish writers would send you?
I personally look for character led stories that fit the basic genre of what we have advertised for – teen!. For the magazine we get so many stories, it’s sometimes impossible to choose and of course, we don’t just have fiction. I always look for strong, well-rounded characters with an original storyline (or a new twist on an older tale) and well paced action. I want to feel what the main character is feeling and be taken through his or her story absolutely gripped and convinced that they are real. First person limited and third person limited are our preferred narrations, and all the editors on the Wyvern team will tell authors to not jump from one character’s point of view to another. The magazine usually has slots for two to three short stories, some flash fiction and maybe a poem or two.
As for particular stories or plots, we are generally open and like to be surprised! As long as it fits well within our readership, has a strong narration and original voice, we’re interested.
Why would you pass on a story?
If a story was good but had so many grammatical errors that I wanted to give up reading, I’d pass on the story. I’d also pass if it was boring, switched viewpoint mid paragraph, was unoriginal, or just poorly written. Excessive foul language, graphic sex, or violence are also a no for us. For the anthologies, the editors will sometimes find stories that they like but need improving on. When this happens, we contact the author and tell them what we’d like changed if the author is willing. For main submissions, however, there are just too many to give personal feedback on, which is a shame because there are some amazing stories that come our way (and some very poor ones, but there is a learning curve for all writers).
What do you enjoy the most about editing Wyvern Magazine?
That’s a tough one to answer. I think when it all comes together at the end is when I’m most enjoying it, but I love the point of sending out acceptance e-mails (the worst is having to reject, but it comes with the territory). Of course, there are times when things seem to go terribly wrong. These are usually technical hitches such as images not uploading on the website properly, or my PDF deciding to reformat.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why? Favorite short stories? Is there a story (or two) that was completely unforgettable… changed your life or outlook in some way?
I absolutely love Neil Gaiman! Bram Stoker, Wilkie Collins (I do love turn of the century fiction), Holly Black, Tolkien, Poe, Crissida Cowell, Diana Wynne Jones, ah, I could go on forever. Derek Landy also is one of my favourites. Aubrie Dionne, who we are lucky enough to have as one of our authors also keeps me gripped when I read her tales. I think it’s the magic in the stories that keeps me wanting more; there is something almost bewitching about the way they write and I end up getting so emotionally involved with the plot and characters that they will creep into my dreams.
One of my favourite short stories is by Poe – where the lunatics in an asylum break out and pretend to be the doctors. It always makes me laugh, but also reminds me that life’s ‘rules’ are always dictated by those in power, no matter how insane they are. For teen fiction, my favourite short story is by Alice Godwin called Clearskin. It was the winner of the short story competition for Wyvern Publications last year and it left me in gooseflesh for days afterwards it was so beautiful.
Anything new coming to Wyvern Magazine this year?
We’ve got the ‘Assistant Editor’s Corner’ which is good fun as it allows our assistant editor to use some of his own fiction to highlight some do and don’t for writing. Other than that, it’s the usual articles, fiction and interviews.
Erin Fanning 