What’s Up in Literary Events in Ottawa, November 2017

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION BRANCH (OTTAWA)

 

NOVEMBER, 2017

 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Parliament_Ottawa_Canada.jpg

Need more information on CAA-NCR, its programs or events?  Visit us at http://canadianauthors.org/nationalcapitalregion/

 Join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/CanadianAuthorsNCR/

Keep in touch on Twitter at: @caa_ncr

 TO ALL READERS: Please send all submissions & event notices in the body of an email; (the text needs to permit copy and paste. Exceptions: Accompanying images such as photos and book cover) to Arlene Smith at NCRadmin@canadianauthors.org

 

CAA-NCR MONTHLY MEETINGS FOR 2017-2018 UPCOMING

  •  Meeting start time changed to 7:15 p.m . • No meeting in January so we can hibernate on a cold winter night and not worry about a snowy commute. • A meeting in June instead when snowstorms won’t be an issue.
  • A writing challenge at the start of every regular monthly meeting to engage those in attendance and to develop our writing skills. • A short reading by a member at the start of every monthly meeting to promote our writers and to inspire others with great ideas.

OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS:  7:15 p.m. at McNabb Recreation Centre, 180 Percy St. Ottawa

 November 14, 2017

December “Winter Voices” Social

February 13, 2018

March 13, 2018

April 10, 2108

May 8, 2018 NCWC Awards Night

June 12, 2018

More information on the topics for upcoming meetings can be found on our website at CAA-NCR Meetings

 CAA-NCR MONTHLY MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 2017

 Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Location: McNabb Recreation Centre, 180 Percy Street at Gladstone, Ottawa

 TOPIC: Writing Historical Novels for Young Adults: SPEAKER: Ruth Latta

 Ruth Latta, who reviews young adult historical novels for Canadian Materials magazine, and has published three young adult novels set in the past, will talk about approaches to writing this genre, with reference to some outstanding works in this field including her latest novel, Grace and the Secret Vault.

BIO: Ruth Latta’s most recent book is Grace and the Secret Vault, an historical novel set in 1919, for readers ages ten and up. It was shortlisted for this year’s Northern Lit award for literature in English, presented annually by Ontario Library Services North. Ruth won this award in 2011 for her collection of short stories, Winter Moon. She is at work on another novel about Grace Woodsworth, set in the 1920s/ early 1930s. Ruth often reviews young adult historical novels for the online magazine, Canadian Materials. For more information about her books, which include two other young adult novels set in the past, visit her blogs http://ruthlatta.blogspot.ca and http://ruthlattabooks.blogspot.ca, or Google her name. Ruth lives in Ottawa with her husband and her cat.

 

UPCOMING: CAA-NCR AUTUMN WORKSHOP

AUTUMN WORKSHOP

Breaching Galaxies through Poetry

A Workshop with Albert Dumont

Date: Saturday, November 25

Time: 9:00 to 12:00

Place: Algonquin College

 Cost: $45.00 members of the Canadian Authors Association, $55.00 non-members

Are you aware that words, when skillfully and passionately brought forth, can caress the heart of a human being, bringing it to far away galaxies where only the greatest lovers are allowed to go? Words can untangle the knots clinging to the troubling thoughts of an overburdened mind and free individuals, young and old, to boldly ascend into new and broader horizons, if it is their wish to do so. To register, contact: NCRadmin@canadianauthors.org

 

OTHER WORKSHOPS, CONFERENCES AND COURSES

 PACKAGING YOUR IMAGINATION 2017

Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute in downtown Toronto

Presented by Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers

Canada’s Conference for Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers (CANSCAIP) 2017 conference. Attendees will be offered a choice of four sessions from the dozen offered, plus two keynote speakers and much, much more. For more information and to register, go to http://canscaip.org

 

KING’S MFA IN CREATIVE NONFICTION

This unique, two-year, limited-residency graduate program enables writers to continue to live and work in their home communities while working with writer-mentors to develop their book proposals and manuscripts. Faculty and mentors for the MFA include award-winning writers published by the top book imprints in Canada and around the world. Program includes two two-week summer residencies in Halifax, and one-week winter residencies in Toronto and New York, featuring guest publishers, editors, agents and writers.  For further course details and online registration information, please go to ukings.ca/area-of-study/master-of-fine-arts-in-creative-nonfiction/  For specific questions about the program, please contact: Kim Pittway (kim.pittaway@ukings.ca), Stephen Kimber (stephen.kimber@ukings.ca) or Dean Jobb (dean.jobb@ukings.ca). Applications accepted on a rolling basis through the year.

 

SUBMISSION CALLS AND OPPORTUNITIES

 OTTAWA SUBMISSION OPPORTUNITIES 

 Links to contests and submission calls visit CAA-NCR website here: http://canadianauthors.org/nationalcapitalregion/contests/writing-contests-calls-for-Wsubmission/

 BYWORDS.CA SUBMISSION CALL TO CURRENT AND FORMER OTTAWA POETS                    

DEADLINE:  The 15th of every month for the following month’s issue.

Bywords.ca considers previously unpublished poetry from emerging and established poets for our online monthly magazine. We consider work by current and former residents, students and workers of Ottawa. We also publish poems by contributors to our predecessor, the Bywords Monthly Magazine.

We will pay $75 for previously unpublished reviews of 500 words or more of recent Canadian poetry books and chapbooks. Send your reviews as .doc, .docx, .rtf files to amanda@bywords.ca by the end of the month for consideration for the next issue of Bywords.ca. FOR SUBMISSION INFO: www.bywords.ca and click on Guidelines.  Amanda Earl, Managing Editor. Ottawans & former Ottawans, we want yr poems. guidelines @ Bywords.ca #wewantyrbywords #ottpoetry #613local #submissions PRT  Bywords.ca’s literary events calendar here: http://www.bywords.ca/calendar/index.php with up-to-date info on NCR readings, book signings, writers’ circles, literary festivals, spoken word showcases & slams. Event submissions can be sent to events@bywords.ca

PRAIRIE FIRE ANNUAL WRITING CONTESTS

  • Genre: Poetry, short fiction and creative nonfiction
  • Entry fee: $32 Deadline: November 30, 2017
  • Prize: First: $1250, Second: $500, Third: $250
  • Details: prairiefire.ca/contests

Canadian Women and the Vote 1918-2018: Prairie Fire  (39.1) Special Issue

  •  Genre: Poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, memoir, drama, other
  • Entry fee: No fee
  • Deadline: December 1, 2017 Prize: Payment for work in accord with regular Prairie Fire rates Details: prfire@prairiefire.ca

 From Elee Kraljii Gardiner: Against Death Anthology

I’m happy to announce I will be editing an anthology for Anvil Press with a publication date of fall 2018. As a natural outgrowth of my experience writing Tunica Intima, a long poem memoir about vertebral artery dissection and stroke, and Trauma Head, a chapbook repurposing the medical file, Against Death takes up the issue of mortality. The submission deadline is December 15, 2017. Against Death is an anthology of creative non-fiction exploring the psychological shifts that occur when we are prematurely or unexpectedly near death. More info and where to submit:https://eleekg.com/against-death-anthology/

 

OUT AND ABOUT IN TOWN

 MEETINGS, BOOK LAUNCHES AND POETRY READINGS

 TREE READING SERIES at Black Squirrel Books, 1073 Bank St. Ottawa

 Tuesday, November 14, 2017 Christine McNair + Rhombus 19

  • 6:45p Workshop – (Multi)lingual Poetry with Manahil Bandukwala
  • 8:00p Readings – Open Mic and Featured Readers

 Christine McNair: Christine McNair’s second book Charm is new-new (BookThug, 2017). Her first book Conflict (BookThug, 2012; finalist for the City of Ottawa Book Award, the Archibald Lampman Award, and the ReLit Award, and shortlisted for the Robert Kroetsch Award for Innovative Poetry). Her chapbook pleasantries and other misdemeanours (2013) was shortlisted for the bpNichol chapbook award. McNair lives in Ottawa, where she works as a book doctor.

 Rhombus 19:  Rhombus 19: Poetry-in-Performance Ensemble is a loose association of students and faculty from the University of Ottawa’s Department of English. We do translations of visual concrete poetry, ‘covers’ of sound and other experimental works, along with original compositions. Our goal is to promote collective forms of joyful human expression, whether semantic or non-semantic

 Tuesday, November 28 Julia McCarthy + Susan Elmslie

Julia McCarthy: Goran Simić called McCarthy’s 3rd collection “a book of meditations for even those immune to poetry”. Julia McCarthy is originally from Toronto, ON. She spent a decade living in the U.S., most notably in Alaska and Georgia. She also lived in Norway and spent significant time in South Africa before returning to Canada and settling in rural Nova Scotia where she worked as a potter to support her poetry habit. She is the author of two previous poetry collections: Stormthrower, and Return from Erebus (Brick Books, London, ON 2010) the latter of which received the Canadian Authors Association Poetry Award. All the Names Between (Brick Books, 2017) is her third collection.

Susan Elmslie: Elmslie’s book is unflinching urgent celebratory clear-eyed in its brutal wisdom

Susan Elmslie’s first collection of poetry, I, Nadja, and Other Poems (Brick, 2006), won the A.M. Klein Poetry Prize and was shortlisted for the McAuslan, the Pat Lowther, and ReLit awards. Her poems have also appeared in several journals and anthologies—including the Best Canadian Poetry in English and The Best of the Best Canadian Poetry (2017). She lives in Montreal and teaches English literature and creative writing at Dawson College. Museum of Kindness is her second poetry collection.

The Ottawa small press book fair autumn 2017 / 23rd anniversary edition

 Saturday, November 25, 2017, room 203, Jack Purcell Community Centre (on Elgin, at 320 Jack Purcell Lane).

General info: the ottawa small press book fair
noon to 5pm (opens at 11:00 for exhibitors)
admission free to the public.

$25 for exhibitors, full tables
$12.50 for half-tables
(payable to rob mclennan, c/o 2423 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa ON K1H 7M9; paypal options also available. Note: for the sake of increased demand, we are now offering half tables. More:
https://smallpressbookfair.blogspot.ca/2017/08/the-ottawa-small-press-fair-autumn-2017.html

Small Stone for Jan. 11, 2015

stones pic 2 for blogJan 11  Some of the daily readings in the Red Road book offer great writing inspiration and some, while still interesting, do not provide a spark for my own poem. Today’s is such a day. For those, I either go back to the introduction or, as I will today, look to another book I am currently reading, Spirits of the Earth, by Bobby Lake-Thom, which is a guide to Native American Nature Symbols, Stories and Ceremonies.

Since taking a poetry workshop with Albert Dumont some years ago, I have been intrigued by the spirituality of the First Nations peoples. Albert Dumont http://albertdumont.com/ is a Poet, Storyteller, Speaker, and an Algonquin Traditional Teacher. He was born and raised in traditional Algonquin territory (Kitigan Zibi).

“There are ancient secrets and lessons hidden in Nature… In the old days our elders taught us stories and secrets about Nature while singing songs around the lodge fire.”

When man encroaches on habitats of the wild things,
we do not hear them raise voices in protest.
Instead, we protest that they trespass on us.

We are the violent species, we are the ones
that take what is not ours to take.
Other species kill for food and for survival.

We are the ones who slaughter what is not
of our kind. Which is the savage beast,
which the more entitled to survive?
CAS Jan 11 2015

 

CAA-NCR Weekly LIterary Notices Feb. 10 to 16, 2014

caa-whw

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION BRANCH (NCR)

Weekly Notices for the week of Feb. 10 to Feb. 16, 2014

The entrance to Canada's Parliament Hill in Ot...

14 ITEMS 5 NEW plus  3 NEW CONTESTS  

 Please send all submission & event notices to Carol Stephen at cstephen0@gmail.com. All questions that are NOT related to the contents of these notices should be directed to the Branch President, Phyllis Bohonis at phyllis.bohonis@sympatico.ca 

####Find writing-related services offered by our members at our CAA-NCR website   http://www.canauthors-ottawa.org/hire-a-member.shtml

 

CAA-NCR EVENTS: NOTE TO CAA MEMBERS: Recently published a novel, won a writing award, had a spectacular book signing or in some other way been recognized within the writing community? Write a short blurb about it & we’ll publish it in Byline, the CAA-NCR branch Magazine. We’re all excited, and encouraged, when someone in our writing family shines. Send a note to Sharyn Heagle, Editor, Byline at <sharyn_40@yahoo.com>

 

ITEM 1:  CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS TO CAA-NCR’s BYLINE MAGAZINE                                             

If you have an article of interest to writers contact the Editor, Sharyn Heagle, at sharyn_40@yahoo.com. Byline pays 2-1/2 cents per word to a maximum of $25 on publication.   Member promotional material is included in Byline at no cost. Contact the Editor for details.

  ITEM 2: CAA-NCR FEBRUARY MEETING                            

DATE: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 7:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Main Branch, Ottawa Public Library, Laurier and Metcalfe Streets

Ottawa Public Library's Main Branch, designed ...

 

No charge for members, $10 for non-members.

PRESENTATION BY ALBERT DUMONT:

While reflecting on your life’s memories you recall a forgotten experience. What is its purpose? Why is it special?

An experience important enough not to be banished from your memory bank in a poem or short story waiting to be written about. Your life is a treasure trove of original verse and prose, parables and teachings for a good life of writing. Learn more with Albert Dumont.

Photo of Albert DumontALBERT DUMONT, Spiritual Advisor, Algonquin, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg,  was employed by Correctional Services Canada for the last three years as a spiritual advisor for the Aboriginal men incarcerated at Millhaven Institution located near Kingston, ON. He is an activist, a volunteer and a poet who has published 5 books of poetry and short stories. In recognition for his work as an activist and volunteer on his ancestral lands (Ottawa and Region) Albert was presented with a Human Rights Award by the Public Service Alliance of Canada in 2010. Albert has dedicated his life to promoting Aboriginal spirituality and healing and to protecting the rights of Aboriginal peoples particularly those as they affect the young.

 

ITEM 3: CAA  – NCR WORKSHOP COMING UP IN FEBRUARY  

BOOK REVIEW HALF DAY WORKSHOP with Emily-Jane Hills Orford

Date: Saturday, February 22, 2014 Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.

Location: Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa. Building T, Room 230

Parking: available adjacent to Building P, free on weekends.

English: Taken by SimonP

Cost: $25 members; $40 non-members. Spaces are limited, so register early. Registration: Contact Arlene Smith  somertonsmith@yahoo.com

What is a book review? And, more importantly why are book reviews so important? A book review is news. It is many things to many people. The book reviewer is the messenger, the one who is telling the world what is good or bad about a specific book. Writing book reviews, or any review for that matter, is a tricky business. It is, however, a great way to start a writing career as well as promote one’s own publications. Join our half-day book review workshop and find out what a book review means to you and, better yet, how to write a good book review.

Emily-FrontPage Emily-Jane Hills Orford is a regular book reviewer for allbooks review (http://hstrial-allbooksreview.homestead.com/index.html) as well as Prairie Journal (http://prairiejournal.org/reviews.html). Emily-Jane’s writing reflects her love of Canada and the extra-ordinary Canadians who have made Canada a great nation. Her stories have appeared in History Magazine, Canadian Stories Magazine, and Western People. She has written several fiction and non-fiction books: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter, Ukulele Yukon, Letters From Inside, The Creative Spirit, It Happened in Canada (Books 1, 2, and 3), Personal Notes, The Whistling Bishop, Songs of the Voyageurs and F-Stop: A Life in Pictures.

 

ITEM 4: THE CAA-NCR FIRST ANNUAL BOOK FEST                

 

DATE: Sat. April 12, 2014, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (lunch break 12:30–1 p.m.)

LOCATION: Clark Hall, RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa (free parking++)

ENTRY: $5 coupon which can be used towards purchase of any book!

The RA Centre in Ottawa

The RA Centre in Ottawa (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 

  • RAFFLE: Raffle of donated books, to be held during inter-panel breaks.
  • FOOD: Full restaurant/bar within the centre.
  • READING: Participating authors will have the opportunity to read x 2 minutes.
  • Video tapes of such readings may be possible, at no extra cost.

CAA-NCR is really pleased to announce it will hold its First Annual Book Fest on Saturday April 12, 2014. This will not only display books for signing and sale, but will also permit readers to hear our CAA-NCR authors and other authors in Ottawa and surrounding area read from their books, and possibly discuss them in public discussion groups, to be selected according to genre. This will depend on the number of participating authors in each genre, such as: Canadian fiction, international fiction, gender issues, politics, children’s books, and erotica. List and sequence of panels will be determined and published, once all authors and genres are known.

Half hour long moderated panel discussions will alternate with half hour periods of browsing by readers, who will be able to interact with their favourite authors and ask questions privately at the authors’ tables. Q & A will also be permitted at the end of panel discussions, thus stimulating interest and sales.

  • Authors will rent half tables at $40. No sharing. (co-authors may also attend).
  • They may have a chance to participate in the discussions, and in 2 minute videos
  • of their reading, usable on YouTube.
  • Those who pay early will be assigned the best positioned tables.
  • Local bookstores may be included ONLY after individual authors have been accommodated, depending on table space, which is limited.

Authors: Please e-mail ghanems@rogers.com Qais Ghanem, VP Electronic Media a list of your books including genre, to reserve a half table or more. You will then be asked to mail your $40 cheque, payable to CAA-NCR to our treasurer (address will be supplied at the time). THANK YOU!


 CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL NEWS

ITEM 5: CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION EMERGING WRITER AWARD                                                                                             

   

The Canadian Authors Emerging Writer Award honours a Canadian writer under 30 who shows exceptional promise in the field of literary creation. Genre doesn’t matter: Poetry, fiction, nonfiction, scripts – published or unpublished. The winner may be selected based on a body of work in a variety of forms, or on a body of work in a single genre or writing form.

Nominations may be made by creative writing instructors, Canadian Authors branches and TWIGs, professional writers, and publishers.

Deadline: March 31, 2014 (postmark). Entry fee: none. Prize: $500 plus a one-year membership with Canadian Authors  Details: http://canadianauthors.org/national/caa-literary-awards/

 

ITEM 6: CANWRITE! 2014 SHORT STORY CONTEST                  

It’s back! Canadian Authors’ short story anthology contest is back – and so is your chance to win cash, attend a great conference and get published.  The top 10 stories will be published in an anthology to be launched at this year’s CanWrite! conference and retreat. Download entry form as well as guidelines for details.

Deadline: April 1, 2014 Entry fee: $20 per entry Prize: 1st prize: $200 plus a free conference registration; 2nd prize: $100 plus a free conference registration; 3rd prize: free conference registration

Details: http://canadianauthors.org/conference/canwrite-contest/  or 866 216 6222

 

OTHER WORKSHOPS

 

ITEM 7: 2014 NONFICTION WRITERS CONFERENCE              

DATE: MAY 7 – 9, 2014 LOCATION: ONLINE EVENT

Join us for the fourth annual Nonfiction Writers Conference May 7 – 9, 2014!

2014 Nonfiction Writers Conference Location: Your Couch – This event is virtual! Once again we will feature 15 speakers over three days, all conducted via teleseminar. Speakers will be  announced in January.

Conference sessions typically run between 9:00 a.m. PST to 4:00 p.m. PST.

See more at:

http://nonfictionwritersconference.com/2014-nonfiction-writers-conference/


SUBMISSION CALLS AND OPPORTUNITIES

 

ITEM 8: BYWORDS.CA SUBMISSION CALL                       

DEADLINE:  The 15th of every month for the following month’s issue

Bywords.ca considers previously unpublished poetry from emerging and established poets for our online monthly magazine. We consider work by current and former residents, students and workers of Ottawa. We also publish poems by contributors to our predecessor, the Bywords Monthly Magazine.  FOR SUBMISSION INFORMATION VISIT www.bywords.ca and click on Guidelines.  Amanda Earl, Managing Editor.  Check out Bywords.ca’s literary events calendar here: http://www.bywords.ca/calendar/index.php, with up-to-date info on NCR readings, book signings, writers’ circles, literary festivals, spoken word showcases & slams. Event submissions can be sent to events@bywords.ca.

Also check out the latest issue of experiment-o-: Issue 6 – to the others here: http://www.experiment-o.com/

ITEM 9: OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS 50+ SHORT STORY CONTEST                                                                                        

This winter, the Ottawa Public Library is hosting an annual Short Story Contest for older adults. This contest was formerly called the City of Ottawa 55+ Short Story Contest.

Adults 50 years or older, who have a Library card, are eligible to enter. They are invited to submit a maximum of two short stories either in English or French. Stories must be original and unpublished works and under 2000 words. The contest opens February 11, 2014 and the deadline for submissions is March 11, 2014.

Participants can win a cash prize which will be presented at An Afternoon of Storytelling on Wednesday, May 14 during which these authors will each read from their winning stories.

For contest details, visit

http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca   or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca


ITEM 10: INVITATION TO WRITERS FROM STORYMONDO       NEW!

Dear Writer

This is to introduce StoryMondo http://www.storymondo.com/?utm_source=StoryMondo+-+Sign-Up&utm_campaign=eb03ef60c6-Invitation_to_writers12_5_2013&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_1f4119b6c2-eb03ef60c6-97064337

– an exciting new website where you can publish your short stories and verse.

But the writing we publish is special.  It must have a “sense of place” – it must in some way illustrate features or evoke the atmosphere of a particular location. We publish four kinds of writing:

Folk tales and legends – new stories or adapted versions of traditional tales
Travellers’ tales – true accounts or fictional stories about places you have visited
My world – descriptions or stories that illustrate features of where you grew up or where you live
Haiku and sonnets – containing any or all of the elements above

Your writing can be about dragons, food, people, robots, love, nature or anything else.  But it must always have a connection with real physical places such as cities, mountains, rivers, buildings and countries – and so can be displayed as an icon on the StoryMondo map.

Stories can be up to 2,000 words in length.

StoryMondo also offers a crowd-sourcing service to companies, organisations and individuals who wish to commission a piece of writing.  This will involve payment to writers for any selected work.  Please sign up on the StoryMondo website to receive email requests for commissioned writing.

And finally…… StoryMondo runs quarterly competitions.  The winners receive $100 and their work will be specially featured on the StoryMondo website.  Our current competition is for short stories and the closing date is 31 March 2014.

Thank you for reading this email and I do hope that you will be kind enough to forward this message to your fellow writers and/or members of your writers’ association. I look forward to hearing from you at my email address below.

With kind regards,
Desmond Chaffey
Editor, StoryMondo
stories@storymondo.com


IN THE INTEREST OF WRITERS HELPING WRITERS

ITEM 11:  TREE READING SERIES PRESENTS MARK ABLEY
& SHARON MCCARTNEY                                                            NEW!

DATE: Tuesday, February 11, 2014
LOCATION: Club SAW, 67 Nicholas Street, OTTAWA

treereadingserieslogoWORKSHOP 6:45 p.m. To be or not to be a minority – that is the question? Have you ever wondered how to negotiate the complexities of your identity in poetry? This week Jenna Tenn-Yuk will be running a workshop on weaving the various pieces of your identity into your poems.

FEATURED READERS:   Mark Abley and Sharon McCartney

 

mark abley MARK ABLEY IS a Rhodes Scholar and a Guggenheim Fellow, Mark has won the National Newspaper Award for critical writing and been shortlisted for both the Writers’ Trust Award non-fiction prize and the Grand Prix du Livre de Montreal. He has written two non-fiction books on language and etymology, and recently published his fourth book is a piece of non-fiction entitled Conversations With a Dead Man: The Legacy of Duncan Campbell Scott (Douglas & McIntyre, 2013). His poetry collection Tongues of Earth: New and Selected Poems will be published in 2015 by Couteau.

Sharon McCartney SHARON MCCARTNEY received her MFA in poetry from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, has has been been included in the Best Canadian Poetry anthologies for 2012 and 2013, and won the Acorn/Plantos People’s Prize for her 2008 collection The Love Song of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Her fifth collection Hard Ass was published in 2013 by Palimpsest Press.

To find out more visit http://www.treereadingseries.ca/

ITEM 12: MCNAIR & AVASILICHIOAEI IN A B SERIES       NEW!

 

DATE: Thursday, February 13, 2014 8:00 P.M. until 10:00 P.M.

LOCATION: THE OTTAWA ART GALLERY,  2 DALY AVE. OTTAWA, ON.

Join us for readings by Christine McNair and Oana Avasilichioaei + a multimedia presentation!An A B Series Presentation More info: http://abseries.org/
Oana Avasilichioaei’s We, Beasts (Wolsak and Wynn, 2012) won the Quebec Writers’ Federation‘s A. M. Klein Prize for Poetry in 2012. In We, Beasts, textual architecture, orality and multilingualism are traversed. In her book, feria: a poempark (Wolsak and Wynn, 2008), geography and public space are explored. And in Expeditions of a Chimæra (BookThug, 2009)co-authored with Erín Moure, Avasilichioaei engages with translation and collaborative performance. Avasilichioaei has also translated two volumes of poetry: one from Romanian by Nichita Stănescu, Occupational Sickness (BuschekBooks, 2006) and one from French by Louise Cotnoir, The Islands (Wolsak and Wynn, 2011).

Christine McNair’s first book Conflict (Book Thug 2012) was shortlisted for the ReLit award, as well as the Archibald Lampman award, and the City of Ottawa Book Award. She has previously been shortlisted for the Robert Kroetsch Award for Innovative Poetry. She works as a book doctor in Ottawa.

 

ITEM 13: CAPITAL SLAM FEATURING TITILOPE SONUGA!        NEW!

 

DATE: Saturday, February 15, 2014  6:30pm until 10:00

LOCATION: MERCURY LOUNGE, 56 BY WARD MARKET SQUARE, OTTAWA

 Doors and Sign-up at 6:30. $8 and free for performers. All ages welcome

Presenting poetry superstar Titilope Sonuga!

This is the THIRD TO LAST opportunity to get your work in if you want to qualify for the CapSlam semi-finals in April… so GET IT IN!  There will be a priority list, but first… let’s talk about Titi!

From 2007 when Titilope first stepped to the microphone at a local open mic, to gracing stages from Lagos to Cape Town, New York to California, Edmonton to Toronto and places in between, her goal has been to remind us that the ties that bind us transcend all of the borders we have created. She will tell you that no poem is brand new. In the telling and re-telling we are reminded that someone has walked this path before.

In 2011 she received an invitation to perform at the first poetry showcase at the 2011 Achebe Colloquium on Africa which included performances by Sonia Sanchez, Jayne Cortez, Yusef Komunyakaa, Obiora Odechukwu, Bassey Ikpi, Twin Poets, Offiong Bassey and Chinua Achebe himself.  Yeah. She is that good.

Her bio is long, but WELL worth reading. View the full bio at: https://www.facebook.com/events/586641414762859/  where you’ll also find the priority list for this slam.
Big, big, BIG thanks to the CITY OF OTTAWA for hooking us up so we can bring you features like Titi!

ITEM 14:  PURSUE YOUR PASSION AT KING’S COLLEGE, HALIFAX  NEW!

 File:Kings College.jpg

Graduate & advanced programs at the University of King’s College

Application deadline: Feb. 15, 2014

King’s offers programs for students who have a degree in another subject already and want to pursue further studies in journalism. The one-year Bachelor of Journalism (BJ) is a concentrated program that gives students a framework of media law, media ethics, and journalism production across a range of media. Students also benefit from hands-on experience in a month-long internship. Learn More

The one year Master of Journalism program is aimed at working journalists and those who already hold a journalism degree. This is their opportunity to take their skills to the leading edge of the profession and specialise in either investigative journalism or the entrepreneurial ‘new ventures’.King’s offers programs for students who have a degree in another subject already and want to pursue further studies in journalism

Earn a Master degree, develop a polished book proposal and write a substantial portion of your manuscript in two years with King’s Master of Fine Arts in Creative Nonfiction. This two-year limited residency program combines short residencies with one-to-one mentoring from professional nonfiction writers. Students end up with a degree, a polished book proposal and at least 200 pages of a finished manuscript.This two-year limited residency program combines short residencies with one-to-one mentoring from professional nonfiction writers. Students end up with a degree, a polished book proposal and at least 200 pages of a finished manuscript.

More infohttp://www.ukings.ca/journalism

 

MAGAZINE SUBMISSION CALLS:

 

NO DEADLINES SPECIFIED:

 

Dreadful Cafe is now soliciting query letters (fiction) and samples (art) for “Thresholds,” their second anthology of art and fiction. All genres are eligible — including short stories, novellettes, and novellas — but preference is given to works that cross more than one and which reflect the flavor and theme. Length: 1000-25000 words. Payment: $20-$250. Deadline: Open.     Guidelines: http://dreadfulcafe.com/thresholds

 

Strangelet Literary Journal Open to Submissions. Strangelet is a new journal of speculative fiction, accepting fiction, poetry, nonfiction, graphic stories/comics, and artwork. It is now open to submissions of short stories, graphic fiction, poems and essays. It is a paying market.Details: www.strangeletjournal.com/submit/

 

The Traveling Poet (US) is an ezine publishing poetry from writers ages 12-25, and articles on hitchhiking, traveling broke, poverty, and philosophy. Poetry about traveling is ideal, but any subject is welcome. No Beat Generation re-enactments. Deadline: Rolling  Guidelines:

http://travellingpoetblogzine.wordpress.com/

Entertainment and pop culture magazine A Bard’s Tales (Canada) is looking for contributing writers. Payment: $50 for features, $50 for reviews, and $25 for opinion pieces. All pieces must be first pitched (lead to the story, possible sources, rough length, etc) and approved by one of the ABT editors. Deadline: Open.  WEBSITE: http://abardstales.com/

Lunch Ticket, a literary magazine published by the Antioch University Los Angeles Creative Writing MFA Program, is accepting submissions for its monthly Amuse-Bouche feature. Submit creative nonfiction, writing for young people, fiction, poetry and art. Guidelines: http://lunchticket.org/about/submission-guidelines/

 

New Toronto-based graphic arts mag, Archenemy Magazine, seeks editorials, reviews and creative writing related to comics, illustration and design. Creative pieces will be illustrated by a contributing artist. Also interested in potential regular writers/features. Length: 600–2500 words. Accepting freelance pitches and humour pieces, also. “Compensation is always awarded.” Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: archemag.com/contribute

Maelstrom, a US print literary journal, is currently seeking submissions of poetry, short fiction, art, and photography that is edgy, smart, funny, and/or weird. Length: 5000 words max. or 3-5 poems. Payment: one copy. Deadline: Open.   Guidelines: maelstromjournal.com/submission-guidelines

 

Poetry Space (UK) is looking for poetry, art, and writing submissions from young writers and artists. All ages welcome. Parents and guardians welcome to submit on child’s behalf. No fees.     Guidelines: poetryspace.co.uk/young-writers-space 

The Furious Gazelle seeks short stories, micro fiction, flash fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short plays, monologues, novel excerpts and art. Wants writing that is “good and well written” and art that is “artistic.” Length: 8000 words max. Deadline: ongoing.  Guidelines: thefuriousgazelle.com/about

 

Online literary magazine The Steel Chisel (Canada) is “perpetually looking” for prose and poetry submissions from Canadian writers. Include a short bio with location, occupation, and any relevant award/publication accomplishments. Deadline: Rolling, on 6th of the month.     Guidelines: http://www.thesteelchisel.ca/contact.html

 

Circa: A Journal of Historical Fiction (Ottawa, ON) is accepting submissions on a historical theme. Accepts fiction, creative non-fiction, book reviews, and articles that have a fresh take on history. Also appreciates genre-crossing, and speculative and alternative history. Length: 2500 words max. (fiction) and 800 words max. (reviews and articles). As a Canadian journal, Circa especially likes Canadian stories. Deadline: Rolling. Guidelines: circajournal.com/submissions

 

The Mackinac (Canada/US) seeks poetry that “bridges the strait between nostalgia and the immediate, the wilds seen and unseen, the best of emerging and established voices.” Submit up to 3 to 5 poems for consideration. Deadline: Ongoing.   Guidelines: themackinacmagazine.com/submit.html

 

Dead Beats (Sheffield, UK), a student-run publishing and live poetry organization, seeks submissions. Accepting poems, short stories (max. 2000 words) and experimental pieces from everyone, regardless of experience. Seeks to “share inspired and inspiring works from around the globe.” No deadline. Guidelines: http://www.deadbeats.eu/submission

 

Independent hybrid lit mag The Holler Box accepts submissions of poetry, fiction, lyric essays, nonfiction, and artwork year-round. Each issue is published online and in the form of a limited release handmade chapbook. Welcomes the alternative and experimental, as well as new and unpublished writers. Length: 5000 words max (prose) and poetry (up to 3). Guidelines: https://thehollerbox.submittable.com/submit

Quarterly journal Squalorly (US) welcomes submissions of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, illustration, and photography. Submit story/essay (5000 words max), flash pieces (up to 3), and poems (up to 5). Appreciates work with emphasis on emotion: “Move, amaze, horrify, and educate.” http://www.squalorly.com/submit

 

Running out of Ink, a new webzine, is accepting short stories of all genres. For more information, visit: www.runningoutofink.com.

Decoded Past is looking for writers with expertise in history and/or prehistory. This internet site will showcase articles written by experts for the general reader: new interpretations of past events, new developments or theories, the past in the context of the present. Writers must hold a degree in the social sciences or historical sciences and be writing in an area of personal expertise, or have an established platform in professional historical writing. Contact Rosemary Drisdelle at info@rosemarydrisdelle.com.

From the Well House is accepting fiction, scholarly essays and poetry. Details can be found at: http://fromthewellhouse.org/?bu0Dd7M9.

 

Ruminate Magazine is now accepting submissions. Guidelines and deadlines are available at: http://www.ruminatemagazine.com/submit/submission-guidelines/.

Carousel is accepting submissions. Info: http://www.carouselmagazine.ca/submit.html.

Antiphon: accepting poetry submissions. Info: http://antiphon.org.uk/index.php/submissions.

Convert Publishing, a new digital publisher, is accepting manuscript submissions. For more details, visit: http://convertpublishing.com/?page_id=19.

 

Neon: A Literary Magazine accepting submissions, info: http://www.neonmagazine.co.uk/

 

Queen’s Quarterly is accepting articles, reviews, short stories and poetry. Details can be found here: http://www.queensu.ca/quarterly/correspondencesubmissions.html.

Event Poetry and Prose is accepting submissions. Guidelines are available at: http://eventmags.com/about-2/submission-guidelines/fiction-poetry/.

 

The Ottawa Arts Review seeks prose submissions (including short fiction, personal essays, reviews, and interviews) relating to literary and visual arts, poetry, drama, and visual art. oar.uesa.ca/submissions/submission-guidelines/

 

New online magazine The Island Review (international) seeks submissions of poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, photography and art from islanders, island-lovers, and those whose work is influenced by islands, or explores ideas of islandness. http://www.theislandreview.com/submissions/ 

 

The recently-launched Northern Cardinal Review (Canada) is seeking creative and vivid poetry, non-fiction essays, and book reviews. Open to writers living in Canada, Alaska, or the northern border states of the U.S. http://northerncardinalreview.wordpress.com/submissions/

 

Comedy website The Higgs Weldon (US) seeks forms of writing (1000 words max.) and cartoons. Deadline: Ongoing: http://thehiggsweldon.com/submit/

Kolaj (Montreal, QC) is a quarterly, print magazine about contemporary collage. Seeks critical reviews and essays, artist profiles, event highlights, articles on collage making, collecting, and exhibiting, and other contributions. Pays. kolajmagazine.com/content/submissions

 

Formalist poetry review The Rotary Dial (Canada) seeks poetry from Canadian and international writers. Looking for work that rhymes and/or scans but isn’t too versey: blank verse, syllabic verse, etc. Response within two weeks. http://therotarydial.ca/submissions/

 

Garbanzo Literary Journal (US) is published in limited-run copies as part of a hand-created series of chapbooks. Seeks stories (1172 words max.) poems (43 lines max.), micro-fiction, macro-faction, creative nonfiction, and a variety of verse forms. Appreciates writing that disregards the rules: http://www.garbanzoliteraryjournal.org/Submission_Guidelines.html

 

BareBacklit is an online bi-monthly magazine seeking poetry, prose, and visual art. Accepts poetry (4 poems max.), fiction (2500 words max.), and flash fiction (1000 words max.). Prefers work that is “unpretentious, minimalist… entertains first, and provokes thought later.” http://www.barebacklit.com/Submissions.html

 

LWOT (Lies With Occasional Truth) seeks fiction from writers in Canada “(and sometimes by Americans who pretend, in their cover letters, to be Canadian)”. The term fiction is open to interpretation.  : http://lwot.net/submission.htm

 

Online journal Pithead Chapel seeks fiction (short and flash) and nonfiction (experimental, personal, lyric essays) “that moves toward something bigger… takes chances.” Accepts stories and essays 4000 words max. Reads year-round.  : http://pitheadchapel.com/submission-guidelines/

 

The New Inquiry welcomes short- and long-form pieces “from anyone who wants to write.” Looks for well-written, original posts on ideas, books, art, culture, and more. No fiction or poetry.  : http://thenewinquiry.com/submit-to-tni/

 

Website strange bOUnce accepts short stories, satire, and poetry, that have been “lightly brushed with sport.” Send work to IWantToWrite@strangebOUnce.com. No payment. http://strangebounce.com/

 

Independent magazine Bitterzoet (US) is now looking for new poetry, fiction, and artwork for their monthly online zine and bi-annual print editions, and mini chapbooks. Publishes work that engages in the “interplay between bitterness and sweetness, light and darkness, salvation and damnation.” Accepts poetry (3-8) prose (6 pages max), and artwork. Also looking for shorter pieces (“bonbons”) of poetry (10 lines max) and prose (150 words max.). Deadline: rolling. Guidelines: bitterzoetmag.submittable.com

 

Independent online journal Black Heart Magazine (U.S) seeks short fiction for its weekday (M-F) publication cycle. Length: 1500 words max. All genres accepted, with a literary angle preferred. Appreciates ‘short-form modern literature, from pulp to literary fiction and everything in-between.’ Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: blackheartmagazine.com/submission-guidelines

 

 

2014 DEADLINES:

 

 DEADLINE: THE 7TH OF EACH MONTH The Bohemyth is OPEN for submissions. We are based in Dublin, Ireland – but there are no geographic restrictions for submitting. Each new issue of The Bohemyth will published on the 7th of each month. To be considered for publication within an issue, your submission must arrive within the first and last day of the previous month. We will only respond to successful submitters in the first week of each month. Occasionally we will give feedback to unsuccessful submitters. We are looking for contemporary short fiction with a literary bent. We want ideas that affect, engage, move and entertain. We want writing that is beautiful, poetic, thought-provoking, edgy, original and inspiring. We want images that linger in minds. We want words that beat out the beat of broken hearts. We want stories that seduce and savage souls.The word count is less than 2,000 words for short fiction pieces. Max of 2 fiction submissions at a time. We want poetry that attempts to communicate. Max of 6 poems. We want essays that ask more questions than they answer. Max of 2 essays. We are also interested in receiving photography submissions – please send us three to five images saved as jpegs. Include a short bio in the third person and send your submission in the body of an email to thebohemytheditor@gmail.com with ‘Submission’ , and whatever category you’re submitting to, as the title of the email. If you want your blog/website/twitter handle included as part of you bio please send on full links to these.

All works must be the original creation of the writer/photographer. Copyright remains with the artist.

 

FEBRUARY DEADLINES :

 

PERSIMMON TREE The Editorial Board would like to devote the Spring issue to Politics and Activism. We were inspired to try this by the many responses to the topic Activism for Short Takes. If you are also inspired, send us stories — we need fiction as well as non-fiction — for us to consider. The deadline for submitting is February 21. Please send your submission as an attachment to submissions@persimmontree.org. Include a brief biographical statement (less than 50 words) in your email. The attached document should be saved in MS Word or a compatible program. If we can’t open it, we can’t read it. Submissions should be double-spaced, with 12-point type and numbered pages. At the top of the first page please enter author’s name, address, telephone, and email address. Type the title of the piece, labeled fiction or non-fiction, in the subject line. We look forward to hearing from you. The Editors,

Persimmon Tree: http://www.persimmontree.org

 

MARCH DEADLINES:

 

THE BOHEMYTH SPECIAL EDITION Info for March.  Dear Readers, In tribute to International Women’s Day – which is marked on March 8th annually – we here at The Bohemyth have decided to dedicate our March Issue – which will be published on March 7th – exclusively to women. In an attempt to showcase some of the very best creative talent this generation has to offer, we decided to initially solicit submissions from women who we read, admire, and are excited about seeing what they will do next. The response and enthusiasm for the idea was fantastic. Our line-up is stellar. But. We at The Bohemyth are greedy. We’re greedy for *new*. For promising. For great. For poetry. For fiction. For photography. For essays. And so we have decided to open our submissions, in the hope that unfamiliar names will submit work we think deserves to stand alongside the already amazing pieces we are receiving from our confirmed contributors. Our normal submission guidelines still apply. All that we ask from any prospective submitters to our special March Issue is the following:

–          be a woman – have something to say – say it in a way we cannot ignore. http://thebohemyth.com/2014/02/01/info-for-march/

 

For an upcoming anthology, In Fact Books (US) seeks essays by writers with insight into the nature and experience of profound psychiatric challenges — as patients, mental health professionals, or both. Seeking true narratives about the recovery process and the therapeutic journey. Scientific information should be balanced by the writer’s unique perspective. Stories should reach beyond a strictly personal experience for some universal or deeper meaning. Length: 4500 words max. Open to international writers. Note: $3 to submit online. Deadline: March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: https://www.creativenonfiction.org/submissions/mental-health-anthology

Cleis Press seeks sex toy erotica stories of all varieties for an anthology. Length: 1500-4000 words. Payment: $50/story & 2 copies of book on publication. Deadline: March 1, 2014. http://lustylady.blogspot.ca/2013/12/3-erotica-calls-for-submissions-sex.html

 

Sunshine in a Jar Press. Looking to get published? Sunshine in a Jar Press is welcoming submissions to its new anthology “The Writing Spiral” which will be released in Fall of 2014. They are seeking poems, memoirs, stories and essays, and possible themes are love, loss, joy, decadence, deprivation, hope, fear, friendship, family, work, social responsibility, health, culture, light, and darkness. There is also the opportunity for monthly writing classes to feed your process at Trent University, Oshawa Campus. Deadline: March 1, 2014 Details: www.sunshineinajar.com/ or call 289 252 1978

 

New Welsh Review (Wales) seeks dynamic, curious, lively, and outward-looking writing. Looking for short stories (2500 to 3000 words) and poems (up to six). Occasionally publishes shorter stories and microfiction. Payment: £100 per story and £28 per each poem, upon publication. Also welcomes submissions and ideas for online content (no payment): short reviews (600-800 words), opinion pieces (450 words) and author interviews (8-15 questions). Deadlines: December 12, 2013 and March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: newwelshreview.com/submissions.php

 

Jobbers seeking poetry that “reviles, reflects or revels in the art of professional wrestling” for the Jobbers Poetry Zine Collection. Deadline March 21, 2014 (Publication April 15, 2014). http://nathanielgmoore.tumblr.com/

 

Speculative fiction submissions wanted for anthology Start a Revolution: QUILTBAG Fiction Vying for Change. Published by Exile Editions (Canada) in Spring 2015. International subs welcome. Length: 2,000-10,000 words (< 7.5k preferred). Payment; $0.05/word. Deadline: March 31, 2014    Guidelines: http://michaelmatheson.wordpress.com/start-a-revolution/

 

Cactus Press (Montreal) is looking to publish a series of poetry chapbooks from Montreal-based writers in preparation for their debut launch. Deadline: March 31, 2014. Theme/length: open. Guidelines: http://cactuspress.blogspot.ca/p/submit.html

 

AND LATER:

 

JackPine Press (SK) is seeking proposals for collaborations of poetry and design to be launched as limited edition hand-bound chapbooks in Fall 2014 (and beyond). Attention to literary merit, typography and binding techniques is considered; also, the ways in which the proposed work both challenges the notion of what a book can be while also upholding an excellent standard of writing and bound book design. Deadline: April 16, 2014 GUIDELINES: http://www.jackpinepress.com/guidelines.php

 

Open access journal Beyond Borderlands: A Critical Journal of the Weird, Paranormal, and Occult (Canada) is a forum for the interdisciplinary, artistic, and critical exploration of topics relating to esotericism, paranormality, and the culturally weird. Accepting letters to the editor, scholarly and popular articles, music, art, creative writing, occult explorations, and reviews. No payment. Deadline: May 1, 2014. guidelines: http://www.beyondborderlands.com/index.php/submissions

 

The Potomac Review (Montgomery College, Maryland) accepts submissions of poetry (up to three), fiction and nonfiction (5000 words max.), photography, and artwork. Appreciates both realistic and experimental prose and poetry. Deadline: May 1, 2014.  Guidelines: http://cms.montgomerycollege.edu/EDU/Alt.aspx?id=19015

 

Online journal The California Journal of Women Writers seeks submissions from female writers/poets/students for its second biannual chapbook of short fiction and poetry. Theme: Home — the words, ideas, and images evoked when thinking about home. Length: 2000 words max. Deadline: May 24, 2014.  Guidelines: http://journalwomenwriters.wordpress.com/2013/01/14/seeking-creative-writingpoetry-submissions-for-our-2nd-biannual-chapbook/

Blind Dog Press seeks poems and short prose pieces about the life and work of Arthur Rimbaud for an anthology, Fierce Invalids: A Tribute To Arthur Rimbaud (publications June 2014). Send 1-3 poems along with a short bio to rimbaudsubs@gmail.com. Payment: one copy. Editor: Glenn Cooper. Deadline: May 30, 2014.

 

UPCOMING WRITING CONTESTS

 

2014 CONTESTS

 

DEADLINE NOT SPECIFIED:

 

 Fjords Review Annual Book Contest. Call for Submissions!!! We’re still accepting submissions to our Annual Book Contest, and we’re looking for the best book manuscripts of fiction, poetry, essay and art. We publish, distribute and advertise the winner throughout our various networks and affiliates, and send review copies to all major review agencies. Plus, all entrants also receive a complimentary year subscription the Fjords biannual issues! You can read more about the contest, check out previous winners and submit your manuscript here: http://ow.ly/t83gr

 

 

MULTIPLE DEADLINES:

2nd Annual Story Starters Contest – Ontario Writers’ Conference. On the first of each month, our website will feature an extraordinary work by a local artist and we invite you to enter a piece of writing inspired by that work. Taking inspiration from the picture on our website, write a short piece (100 words maximum) and post it in the comment section of the entry page. It can be any form of writing (poetry, prose, dialogue, haiku, etc.) as long as it is original. Anyone may enter this contest. You may enter as often as you like. English entries only please. Deadline: the last day of the month that the artwork is featured Entry fee: none 

Prize: The top ten entries for each month will be sent to our final-round judge who will select a top 3 for each piece of art. The top three entries will be displayed at the 2013 Ontario Writers’ Conference (May 2nd & 3rd in Ajax, Ontario) for final voting by attendees. At the conference, delegates will review and vote for their favourites by ballot. The winning entries will be announced at the conference and each winner will be awarded a prize (tba).

Details: http://thewritersconference.com/whats-new/story-starters-contest/

 

FEBRUARY DEADLINES:

               

  • Submissions Open for Disquiet Prize. DEADLINE FEB. 15, 2014. Sponsored by Dzanc Books, the annual DISQUIET Literary Prize in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction is currently open for submissions. A winner in each category will receive publication in a participating literary journal, and one grand-prize winner will receive airfare, accommodations, and tuition—a prize worth approximately $5,000—to attend the fourth annual DISQUIET International Literary Program in Lisbon, Portugal, this summer. The winner in poetry will be published in the Collagist; the winner in fiction will be published in Guernica; and the winner in nonfiction will be published in Ninth Letter. Finalists in each category will be offered partial tuition scholarships to attend the DISQUIET program. Four full scholarships to attend the retreat are also available for writers of Luso descent. Submit up to ten poems or up to twenty pages of prose with a $15 entry fee by February 15. Entries may be submitted online via Submittable https://disquietinternational.submittable.com/submit    or sent by mail to Dzanc Books, the DISQUIET Prize, 610 South Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002. Previously unpublished works in English are eligible. Writers must live or have lived in the United States or Canada, but need not be citizens or permanent residents. MORE INFO: http://www.pw.org/content/submissions_open_for_disquiet_prize

 

  • Entries are welcome for the Friends of the Merril Short Story Contest. First prize: $500. Seeking original, inclusive, previously unpublished speculative fiction. Length: 5000 words max. Entry fee: $5 per entry. Unlimited entries. Deadline: February 15, 2014.  Guidelines: friendsmerrilcontest.com/guidelines

 

  • Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. Competition opens Monday, January 6, 2014, 8 A.M. (EST). Capture the essence of Erma’s writings and you could win $500 and a free registration to the Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop! 525 writers from 7 different countries and 48 states entered the 2012 competition. Erma Bombeck, graduated from the University of Dayton in 1949, lived with her husband and family in Centerville, Ohio, and inspired people worldwide with her columns and books about life’s trials and tribulations. Her memory lives on with the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition hosted every two years by the Washington-Centerville Public Library and the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop hosted by the University of Dayton. Deadline: Feb. 17, 2014 8 AM. More info: http://www.wclibrary.info/erma/index.asp

 

  • The Nick Blatchford Occasional Verse Contest Deadline  February 28, 2014. This contest is for poems of occasion, either personal or public, poems that make something an occasion or simply mark one. We will award a grand prize of $1000 to the poem judged most worthy. Another $1000 in prize money will be distributed as the judges fancy. However the prize money falls, the best of what we see will be published in The New Quarterly, at our usual rates. Entry fee: $40 for up to 2 unpublished poems, $5 for each additional poem .  Submitters will receive a 1-year subscription (or subscription extension) to The New Quarterly. For full contest details and to enter visit tnq.ca/contests.

 

  • Online and ebook journal Switchback (MFA-run, University of San Francisco, CA) is accepting poems, short stories, essays, and art. Three Editors’ prizes available, including a $200 prize for best piece. No reading fees. Deadline: February 28, 2014.    Guidelines: swback.com/call

 

  • Toronto Star Short Story Contest. The New Year marks the launch of the 36th Toronto Star Short Story Contest, among the largest in Canada and one of the top competitions in North America. With a first prize of $5000 plus tuition for the 30-week creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers valued at $3000, it’s also one of the most lucrative in the country.  This contest is only open to Ontario residents.  Deadline: February 28, 2014. Entry fee: none. Prize: 1st prize: $5000 plus tuition for creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers; 2nd prize: $2000; 3rd prize: $1000. Details: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/01/04/star_short_story_contest_seeks_entries.html

 

MARCH DEADLINES:

 

  • NEW! 2014 Kenyon Review Short Fiction Contest! SUBMIT FROM FEB. 1 TO MAR. 1 2014. For the first time, after great debate and serious consideration, we are requiring an entry fee of $18. Last year entries leapt nearly 200%, all but overwhelming our small band of readers. In order to keep the contest alive, therefore, we decided to institute a fee. So for the price of a one-year subscription to The Kenyon Review–and it’s a discounted price–you will receive four superb issues of KR plus the chance to submit a piece of short fiction to this contest. We hope you’ll do so! As always, regular submissions to The Kenyon Review will require no fee and are welcome between September 15th and January 15th each year. The contest is open to all writers who have not yet published a book of fiction. Submissions must be 1200 words or fewer. Katharine Weber, the Richard L. Thomas Chair in Creative Writing at Kenyon College and author of five critically-acclaimed novels, including Triangle and True Confections, will be the final judge. The Kenyon Review will publish the winning short story in the Winter 2015 issue, and the author will be awarded a scholarship to attend the 2014 Writers Workshop, June 14th-21st, in Gambier, Ohio. Additional info and Submission Guidelines here: http://www.kenyonreview.org/contests/short-fiction/
  • Grasmere Publishing (BC) invites entries for the Lynn Manuel Children’s Fiction Contest. Prize: $500 cash, $1000 advance against royalties, and publication. Open to novels suitable for children aged 7-16 years old. Looking for an engaging voice, well-developed characters, and a strong storyline. Length: 25,000-75,000 words. No theme, but no violence. Open to Canadian and US residents who have not previously published a novel for children. Deadline: March 1, 2014 (first chapter only). Entry fee: $30. Guidelines: grasmerepublishing.com

 

·         NEW! 2014 New South Writing Contest Now Open for Submissions. The New South Writing Contest, awarding $1,000 to a winner in poetry and a winner in prose, and $250 to the runners up in each category, is now open. Contest guidelines are applicable from December to March ONLY. The deadline for contest submissions is March 15, 2014 at 11:59 PM. Submittable submissions will close automatically; mailed submissions will not be accepted. The 2014 New South Writing Contest will be be judged by Brian Oliu in the genre of poetry and Christopher Merkner in the genre of prose. Please take care that you are submitting under the contest genre; regular submissions received during the contest period WILL NOT be entered into the contest. Your $15 entry fee also includes a one-year subscription to New South. MORE INFO: http://newsouthjournal.com/contest/

·         The Conium Review seeks submissions for its Innovative Short Fiction Contest. Judged by Manuel Gonzales. Winner receives $500, publication, five contributor copies, and a copy of the judge’s book. Length: 7500 words max. Entry fee: $15 (includes free issue download). Entry fee: $15. Deadline: March 15, 2014.    Guidelines: coniumreview.com/contests.html

 

  • MSLEXIA 2014 WOMEN’S SHORT STORY COMPETITION.  A competition for unpublished short stories of up to 2,200 words. We accept work on all subjects, so write about anything and everything you fancy – we love to read it. 1ST PRIZE: £2,000 Plus two optional extras: a  week’s writing retreat at Chawton House Library, and a day with a Virago editor.  2nd prize: £500, 3rd prize: £250 Three other finalists each receive £100 Judge: Jane Rogers Closing date: 17 March 2014 All winning stories will be published in the Jun/Jul/Aug 2014 edition of Mslexia Before you enter, find out all you need to know in the competition rules. Ready? Enter the competition. https://mslexia.co.uk/shop/scomp_enter.php

 

·         NEW! 2014 FOUR WAY BOOKS INTRO PRIZE IN POETRY Judge: Brenda Shaughnessy. Awarding publication of a book-length collection, a Four Way Books sponsored reading in NYC, and $1000. Submission Dates: January 1 – March 31, 2014 (postmark), or online, via our submission manager by April 1 at 3 AM EST, to accommodate our west coast friends. Eligibility: Open to any poet writing in English who has not already published a book-length collection of poetry. submissions accepted on-line (preferred) and by mail. Please read the instructions carefully. GENERAL GUIDELINES (for all submitters) here:  http://fourwaybooks.com/site/submissions/

 

  • The Eric Hoffer Award for short prose and books: Winning stories and essays are published in Best New Writing, Book awards are covered in the US Review of Books. Prizes: Two grand prizes are awarded annually: one for short prose (i.e. fiction and creative nonfiction) and one for independent books from small, micro, and academic presses, as well as self-published books. Prizes include a $250 award for short prose and a $2,000 award for best independent book. In addition to the two main grand prize awards, various other honors and distinctions are given for both prose and books, including the Montaigne Medal, the da Vinci Eye, and the First Horizon Award. Submissions accepted each year by nominating books and prose. Book deadline January 21. Prose deadline March 31st. more info at: http://www.hofferaward.com/

 

  • Ascent Aspirations Publishing. Summer Anthology 2014 CONTEST. Call for submissions. Submissions Open From December 2013 to March 31, 2014. THEME: Our theme is the bizarre (as in strikingly unconventional and far-fetched in style or appearance; odd) or (as in markedly unusual in appearance, style, or general character and often involving incongruous or unexpected elements; outrageously or whimsically strange), however there are word limits. Poetry is to be no more than 30 lines including the spaces between stanzas, so that the poem printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on one page. Flash Fiction prose is to be no more than 600 words, so that the prose printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on two pages. To clarify our criteria for this anthology, hone your words, and be a minimalist. FOR MORE INFO: http://www.ascentaspirations.ca/ascentsummer2014.htm

 

AND LATER:

  • Writers Digest Self-Published Competition: Writer’s Digest hosts the 22nd annual self-published competition–the Annual Self-Published Book Awards. This self-published competition, co-sponsored by Book Marketing Works, LLC, spotlights today’s self-published works and honors self-published authors. Early-Bird Deadline: April 1, 2014 A chance to win $3,000 in cash – National exposure for your work. The attention of prospective editors and publishers,  A paid trip to the ever-popular Writer’s Digest Conference! http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/selfpublished?et_mid=652598&rid=239199236

 

  • 2014 Bristol Short Story Prize is open to all published and unpublished, non-UK and UK based writers over 16 years of age. Stories can be on any theme or subject and entry can be made online via the website or by post. Entries must be previously unpublished with a maximum length of 4,000 words (There is no minimum). The entry fee is £8 per story (about 15 CAD). The closing date for entries is midnight (BST) April 30th 2014. Full details and rules at www.bristolprize.co.uk

 

  • The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton seeks short stories and poem for its annual Forget Me Not writing contest. Writers have until April 30 to submit stories of no more than 1,800 words, or poems of no more than 72 lines, in categories for writers 16 and older, and those who are younger. All entries, fiction or non-fiction, must begin with the words, “Remember when.” It’s the fifth year for the contest created to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, and raise money for the local chapter of the Alzheimer Society. Submissions by writers age 19 and older must be accompanied by a donation of $20 or more. Judy Doan, executive director of the local chapter, said the contest has attracted as many as 75 entries in a single year. Contest rules are available from the society’s office, 420 East St., N., 519-332-444.
  • Writer’s Digest has been shining a spotlight on up and coming writers in all genres through its Annual Writing Competition for more than 80 years. Enter our 83rd Annual Writing Competition for your chance to win and have your work be seen by editors and agents! The winning entries of this writing contest will also be on display in the 83rd Annual Writer’s Digest Competition Collection. Early-Bird Entry Deadline: May 5, 2014. http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/writers-digest-annual-competition?et_mid=657418&rid=239199236

 

  • The New Quarterly invites entries for the The Peter Hinchcliffe Fiction Contest. Prize: $1000. Theme: any unpublished work of short fiction. Entry fee: $40 (includes subscription). All submissions will be considered for paid publication ($250) in the magazine. Deadline: May 28, 2014.     Guidelines: tnq.ca/peter-hinchcliffe-fiction-award

 

  • MULTIPLE DEADLINES: The Antigonish Review’s 2014 Writing Contests: GREAT BLUE HERON POETRY CONTEST & SHELDON CURRIE FICTION PRIZE. $2,400 in Prizes! Deadlines: Fiction entries must be postmarked by May 30, 2014.  Poetry must be postmarked by June 30, 2014.
  1. Sheldon Currie Fiction Prize: Stories on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 20 pages. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication.
  2. Great Blue Heron Poetry Contest:Poems on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 4 pages. Maximum 150 lines. Entries might be one longer poem, or several shorter poems. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication

Guidelines:  Previously published works, works accepted for publication or simultaneous submissions are ineligible. As well, past winners are ineligible. No electronic submissions, please. Fiction entries must be typed, double-spaced, one side of page only – poetry must be single-spaced. Please include a separate cover sheet containing your identifying information as well as the titles of all entries. Your name must appear ONLY on the cover page. Entry Fee: Canada $25.00; the United States $30.00 (US funds); All others $40.00 (US funds) for either contest. Bonus: You may enter both contests for an additional $10.00. You may enter as often as you like; only your first entry in each category will be eligible for a subscription which will begin with the fall issue, 2014. Make cheques or money orders payable to The Antigonish Review. Mail submissions to: The Antigonish ReviewContest, Box 5000, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada, B2G 2W5. For further information, email TAR@stfx.ca, Phone 902-867-3962 or visit our website at <www.antigonishreview.com>. ENTRIES WILL NOT BE RETURNED; only winners will be notified by September 1, 2014. List of winners will be available at our web site: www.antigonishreview.com.

 

  • Entries  invited for the third annual Arizona Mystery Writers Story Contest. First prize $200. Open to mystery, suspense, and thriller. Length: 2500 words max. Open to everyone. Entry fee: $10. Deadline: June 1, 2014. See guidelines at:  arizonamysterywriters.com/?page_id=1449

 

 

  • Aesthetica Creative Writing Competition 2014: Now Open For Entries! Now in its seventh year, the competition champions and nurtures creative talent from across the world in a celebration of outstanding poetry and short fiction. Creative Writing Competition 2014 Prizes:  £500 prize money for the Poetry Winner,  £500 prize money for the Short Fiction Winner, Publication in the Aesthetica Creative Writing Annual,  A selection of books from competition partner organisations. Writers are invited to submit their work into the categories of Short Fiction and Poetry. Fiction entries should be no more than 2,000 words each and poetry entries should be no more than 40 lines each. Both Short Fiction and Poetry entries should be written in English. Submissions previously published elsewhere are accepted. Visit www.aestheticamagazine.com/creativewriting to enter.

 

 

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CAA-NCR Weekly Literary Notices for Feb. 3 to 9th, 2014

caa-whwNATIONAL CAPITAL REGION BRANCH (NCR)

Weekly Notices for the week of Feb. 3 to Feb. 9, 2014

15 ITEMS 6 NEW 2 NEW CALLS plus  3 NEW CONTESTS

Please send all submission & event notices to Carol Stephen at cstephen0@gmail.com
####Find writing-related services offered by our members at our CAA-NCR website   http://www.canauthors-ottawa.org/hire-a-member.shtml

CAA-NCR EVENTS: NOTE TO CAA MEMBERS: Recently published a novel, won a writing award, had a spectacular book signing or in some other way been recognized within the writing community? Write a short blurb about it & we’ll publish it in Byline, the CAA-NCR branch Magazine. We’re all excited, and encouraged, when someone in our writing family shines. Send a note to Sharyn Heagle, Editor, Byline at <sharyn_40@yahoo.com>

ITEM 1:  CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS TO CAA-NCR’s BYLINE MAGAZINE
If you have an article of interest to writers contact the Editor, Sharyn Heagle, at sharyn_40@yahoo.com. Byline pays 2-1/2 cents per word to a maximum of $25 on publication.   Member promotional material is included in Byline at no cost. Contact the Editor for details.

ITEM 2: 27TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CAPITAL WRITING CONTEST HURRY!
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 7, 2014!

CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION–NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION WRITERS HELPING WRITERS

CATEGORIES: Short Story • Poetry Prizes in Each Category: $300, $200, $100
Guidelines for 2014 NCWC

The contest is open to members of CAA–NCR and/or residents of the National Capital Region
http://www.canauthors-ottawa.org/contests.shtml

CATEGORIES: Short Story (max. 2500 words) and Poetry (not Haiku) (max. 60 lines including title & blank lines)
ENTRIES must be the original, unpublished work of the entrant. Winning entries and/or Honourable Mentions may be published CAA–NCR’s e-mag, Byline, in a CAA–NCR anthology,
or in the Ottawa Citizen. Copyright remains with author.

Finalists are requested to attend CAA–NCR’s 25th Annual NCWC Awards Night, Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at 7 PM, Ottawa Public Library auditorium, 120 Metcalfe Street at Laurier.
Your presence is important to the celebration of your success with fellow entrants, families and friends. First place winners will be asked to read their entries.
 Entries postmarked after midnight FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2014 will be disqualified.
 Submissions not accompanied by entry fee will be disqualified.
 Submissions will be neither acknowledged nor returned.
 Entries not conforming to rules will be disqualified.
 Overpayment of entry fees will not be returned.
 Entry fee: $15 per story; $15 for up to three (3) poems (poems will be judged individually);
 number of entries unlimited.
 Each prose entry must be in English, typed, on 8 1/2 x 11 paper, one side only,  page-numbered consecutively on bottom right of pages. No extra-large type, please!
 Indicate category and title on top left corner of every page.
 Stories must be double-spaced; this is not required for poetry.
 Contest is blind judged. Entrant’s name must NOT appear on the submission(s).
 Include a separate cover page with contest category, story/poem title, name, address,
 phone number, and e-mail address.
 Members of CAA–NCR are entitled to one (1) free entry in one (1) category.
 Make cheques payable to CAA–NCR and designate NCWC.
 CAA–NCR reserves the right to withhold any prize should entries fail to meet expected standards.
Mail entries to: National Capital Writing Contest, 163 BELL ST., N., Box 57081, Ottawa ON K1R 7E1 Attention: Sharyn Heagle, Receiver
Information: Sharyn Heagle, CAA–NCR Contest Coordinator – sharyn_40@yahoo.com.

ITEM 3: CAA-NCR FEBRUARY MEETING

DATE: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Main Branch, Ottawa Public Library, Laurier and Metcalfe Streets
No charge for members, $10 for non-members.

PRESENTATION BY ALBERT DUMONT:
While reflecting on your life’s memories you recall a forgotten experience. What is its purpose? Why is it special?
An experience important enough not to be banished from your memory bank in a poem or short story waiting to be written about. Your life is a treasure trove of original verse and prose, parables and teachings for a good life of writing. Learn more with Albert Dumont.

ALBERT DUMONT, Spiritual Advisor, Algonquin, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg,  was employed by Correctional Services Canada for the last three years as a spiritual advisor for the Aboriginal men incarcerated at Millhaven Institution located near Kingston, ON. He is an activist, a volunteer and a poet who has published 5 books of poetry and short stories. In recognition for his work as an activist and volunteer on his ancestral lands (Ottawa and Region) Albert was presented with a Human Rights Award by the Public Service Alliance of Canada in 2010. Albert has dedicated his life to promoting Aboriginal spirituality and healing and to protecting the rights of Aboriginal peoples particularly those as they affect the young.

ITEM 4: CAA  – NCR WORKSHOP COMING UP IN FEBRUARY
BOOK REVIEW HALF DAY WORKSHOP with Emily-Jane Hills Orford

Date: Saturday, February 22, 2014 Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Location: Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa. Building T, Room 230

English: Taken by SimonP

English: Taken by SimonP (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Parking: available adjacent to Building P, free on weekends.
Cost: $25 members; $40 non-members. Spaces are limited, so register early. Registration: Contact Arlene Smith  somertonsmith@yahoo.com

What is a book review? And, more importantly why are book reviews so important? A book review is news. It is many things to many people. The book reviewer is the messenger, the one who is telling the world what is good or bad about a specific book. Writing book reviews, or any review for that matter, is a tricky business. It is, however, a great way to start a writing career as well as promote one’s own publications. Join our half-day book review workshop and find out what a book review means to you and, better yet, how to write a good book review.

Emily-FrontPageEmily-Jane Hills Orford is a regular book reviewer for allbooks review (http://hstrial-allbooksreview.homestead.com/index.html) as well as Prairie Journal (http://prairiejournal.org/reviews.html). Emily-Jane’s writing reflects her love of Canada and the extra-ordinary Canadians who have made Canada a great nation. Her stories have appeared in History Magazine, Canadian Stories Magazine, and Western People. She has written several fiction and non-fiction books: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter, Ukulele Yukon, Letters From Inside, The Creative Spirit, It Happened in Canada (Books 1, 2, and 3), Personal Notes, The Whistling Bishop, Songs of the Voyageurs and F-Stop: A Life in Pictures.

ITEM 5: THE CAA-NCR FIRST ANNUAL BOOK FEST

DATE: Sat. April 12, 2014, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (lunch break 12:30–1 p.m.)
LOCATION: Clark Hall, RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa (free parking++)
ENTRY: $5 coupon which can be used towards purchase of any book!

The RA Centre in Ottawa

The RA Centre in Ottawa (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

 RAFFLE: Raffle of donated books, to be held during inter-panel breaks.
 FOOD: Full restaurant/bar within the centre.
 READING: Participating authors will have the opportunity to read x 2 minutes.
 Video tapes of such readings may be possible, at no extra cost.

CAA-NCR is really pleased to announce it will hold its First Annual Book Fest on Saturday April 12, 2014. This will not only display books for signing and sale, but will also permit readers to hear our CAA-NCR authors and other authors in Ottawa and surrounding area read from their books, and possibly discuss them in public discussion groups, to be selected according to genre. This will depend on the number of participating authors in each genre, such as: Canadian fiction, international fiction, gender issues, politics, children’s books, and erotica. List and sequence of panels will be determined and published, once all authors and genres are known.

Half hour long moderated panel discussions will alternate with half hour periods of browsing by readers, who will be able to interact with their favourite authors and ask questions privately at the authors’ tables. Q & A will also be permitted at the end of panel discussions, thus stimulating interest and sales.

 Authors will rent half tables at $40. No sharing. (co-authors may also attend).
 They may have a chance to participate in the discussions, and in 2 minute videos
 of their reading, usable on YouTube.
 Those who pay early will be assigned the best positioned tables.
 Local bookstores may be included ONLY after individual authors have been accommodated, depending on table space, which is limited.

Authors: Please e-mail ghanems@rogers.com Qais Ghanem, VP Electronic Media a list of your books including genre, to reserve a half table or more. You will then be asked to mail your $40 cheque, payable to CAA-NCR to our treasurer (address will be supplied at the time). THANK YOU!

CAA-NCR MEMBER NEWS

ITEM 6: CAA-NCR MEMBER, DR. BOB ABELL, BOOK LAUNCH
NEW!
DATE: Sun. February 9, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
LOCATION: BOOKS ON BEECHWOOD, 35  BEECHWOOD AVE., OTTAWA

Bob AbellDr. Bob Abell, author of the non-fiction book, Salvaging Capitalism/Saving Democracy
and the dystopian novel The Corporation, will be launching his new adventure/romance novel, Trails, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Reviewers said of Salvaging Capitalism:
“… extraordinarily well researched … It’s funny and fun.
… If you like to see the big picture, you’ll love this book.”
… and of The Corporation:
” Abell’s characters walk right off the page….
brilliant cryptic allusions to dangerous trends
in our society… this book is a must …”

… and now Trails!
375166_535386839841340_1756287831_nCaught in an unexpected storm while hiking in the mountains of Arizona, Shelley barely escapes a flash flood. Is her rescuer knight or knave? From that first cold night in the mountains, a chain of potentially deadly events leads to intrigue and a fast-paced adventure, ranging from the mountains of Arizona to Northern Mexico – with echoes in Washington, D.C.

CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL NEWS
ITEM 7: CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION EMERGING WRITER AWARD

The Canadian Authors Emerging Writer Award honours a Canadian writer under 30 who shows exceptional promise in the field of literary creation. Genre doesn’t matter: Poetry, fiction, nonfiction, scripts – published or unpublished. The winner may be selected based on a body of work in a variety of forms, or on a body of work in a single genre or writing form.
Nominations may be made by creative writing instructors, Canadian Authors branches and TWIGs, professional writers, and publishers.
Deadline: March 31, 2014 (postmark). Entry fee: none. Prize: $500 plus a one-year membership with Canadian Authors  Details: http://canadianauthors.org/national/caa-literary-awards/

ITEM 8: CANWRITE! 2014 SHORT STORY CONTEST
It’s back! Canadian Authors’ short story anthology contest is back – and so is your chance to win cash, attend a great conference and get published.  The top 10 stories will be published in an anthology to be launched at this year’s CanWrite! conference and retreat. Download entry form as well as guidelines for details.

Deadline: April 1, 2014 Entry fee: $20 per entry Prize: 1st prize: $200 plus a free conference registration; 2nd prize: $100 plus a free conference registration; 3rd prize: free conference registration
Details: http://canadianauthors.org/conference/canwrite-contest/  or 866 216 6222

OTHER WORKSHOPS

ITEM 9: OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR YOUTH FEBRUARY

Local authors Tudor Robins, Michel Lavoie and JC Sulzenko will each host writing workshops for kids and teens to help them get ready to participate in the Ottawa Public Library´s 19th annual Awesome Authors Youth Writing Contest.

Short Stories: Tudor Robins, Carlingwood, 281 Woodroffe

 Saturday, February 8, 3-4 p.m. Ages 13-17
Poetry: JC Sulzenko, Sunnyside branch, 1049 Bank

Poésie et nouvelles : Michel Lavoie, Succursale Gloucester-nord, 2036 Ogilvie

 Le samedi 8 février, de 14 h à 15 h, Succursale Cumberland, 1599 Tenth Line, Pour les 13 à 17 ans

Online registration is required but programs are free to attend.

OPL invites aspiring young authors to submit poems and short stories in English and/or French before the contest deadline, February 9, 2014. Participants can win awesome prizes which will be presented in the Spring. For contest details, visit
http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors&lt;http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors  or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or mailto: InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca

ITEM 10: 2014 NONFICTION WRITERS CONFERENCE              NEW!

DATE: MAY 7 – 9, 2014
LOCATION: ONLINE EVENT

Join us for the fourth annual Nonfiction Writers Conference May 7 – 9, 2014!

2014 Nonfiction Writers Conference Location: Your Couch – This event is virtual! Once again we will feature 15 speakers over three days, all conducted via teleseminar. Speakers will be  announced in January.
Conference sessions typically run between 9:00 a.m. PST to 4:00 p.m. PST.
See more at:
http://nonfictionwritersconference.com/2014-nonfiction-writers-conference/

SUBMISSION CALLS AND OPPORTUNITIES

ITEM 11: BYWORDS.CA SUBMISSION CALL
DEADLINE:  The 15th of every month for the following month’s issue
Bywords.ca considers previously unpublished poetry from emerging and established poets for our online monthly magazine. We consider work by current and former residents, students and workers of Ottawa. We also publish poems by contributors to our predecessor, the Bywords Monthly Magazine.  FOR SUBMISSION INFORMATION VISIT http://www.bywords.ca and click on Guidelines.  Amanda Earl, Managing Editor.  Check out Bywords.ca’s literary events calendar here: http://www.bywords.ca/calendar/index.php, with up-to-date info on NCR readings, book signings, writers’ circles, literary festivals, spoken word showcases & slams. Event submissions can be sent to events@bywords.ca.

Also check out the latest issue of experiment-o-: Issue 6 – to the others here: http://www.experiment-o.com/

ITEM 12: OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS 50+ SHORT STORY CONTEST                                            NEW!

Ottawa Public Library's Main Branch, designed ...

Ottawa Public Library’s Main Branch, designed by Bemi & Associates Architects (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This winter, the Ottawa Public Library is hosting an annual Short Story Contest for older adults. This contest was formerly called the City of Ottawa 55+ Short Story Contest.

Adults 50 years or older, who have a Library card, are eligible to enter. They are invited to submit a maximum of two short stories either in English or French. Stories must be original and unpublished works and under 2000 words. The contest opens February 11, 2014 and the deadline for submissions is March 11, 2014.
Participants can win a cash prize which will be presented at An Afternoon of Storytelling on Wednesday, May 14 during which these authors will each read from their winning stories.

For contest details, visit
http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca   or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca

IN THE INTEREST OF WRITERS HELPING WRITERS

ITEM 13: THE FACTORY READING PRESENTS:
A NIGHT OF READINGS AND CHAPBOOK LAUNCHES   NEW!

DATE: Thursday, February 6, 2014; doors 7:00 p.m; reading 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: The Carleton Tavern, 223 Armstrong Street (at Parkdale; upstairs), OTTAWA lovingly hosted by rob mclennan with readings by:

N.W. Lea (Ottawa ON)
Hugh Thomas (Fredericton NB)
+ m erskine (Toronto ON)

author bios:

N.W. Lea lives and writes in Ottawa. He is the author of two previous chapbooks, light years (above/ground press, 2006) and Actual Girl (The Emergency Response Unit, 2011) as well as the full-length collection, Everything is Movies (Chaudiere Books, 2007). He will be launching his second above/ground press chapbook Present! (2014).

Hugh Thomas is a poet and translator living in Fredericton, where he teaches mathematics at the University of New Brunswick. His most recent chapbook, Opening the Dictionary, published by above/ground press, was shortlisted for the 2012 bpNichol chapbook award. Franzlations,
a collection of illustrated Kafka remixes, created with Gary Barwin and Craig Conley, was published by New Star Books in 2011. He will be launching his second above/ground press chapbook Albanian Suite (2014).

m erskine is a long-time corrupter of words. The poetry condition is responding well to treatment, thanks for asking. She also had an above/ground press poem broadside reprinted in the anthology Groundswell: the best of above/ground press, 1993-2003 (Broken Jaw Press, 2003).
http://www.abovegroundpress.blogspot.ca/2014/01/the-factory-reading-series-lea-thomas.html

ITEM 14: THE ARTISTIC SHOWCASE FEATURING  TITILOPE SONUGA, AMELIA LECLAIR, BRANDON WINT , LUCILA AL MAR AND GUESTS
NEW!
DATE:     Thursday, February 6, 2014 Time:     7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Pressed, 750 Gladstone Ave. Ottawa Cover: $10
As always, The Artistic Showcase will be hosted by local spoken word poet Brandon Wint :)

The Artistic Showcase hibernated during the months of December and January, but in February it will be back with a bang. This month we will be welcoming a lovely mix of artists whose expressions represent various artistic and blood lineages. We will be blessed to hear and witness the talents of featured performers:

 TITILOPE SONUGA (www.titilope.ca)
 AMELIA LECLAIR (https://myspace.com/amelialeclair)
 BRANDON WINT (www.brandonwint.ca)
 LUCILA AL MAR

along with special guest performances by: RASHMI LOGO and SUZY PANKHURST and DOHNIA

ITEM 15:  LIPS FEBRUARY SLAM                        NEW!

DATE:  Friday, February 7, 2014     TIME:  7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30)
LOCATION:  Thirsty Moose Restaurant – UPSTAIRS (20 Bridge St., Carleton Place)
COST:  $5.00 per person

The Live Poets Society of Lanark County (aka LiPS) is presenting an exciting new format for our February 2014 SLAM. The event is the LiPS 3-2-1…Raise It! SLAM.

It will have 3 rounds (instead of the regular 2 rounds).  Poets will slam a 3-minute poem in round one, a 2-minute poem in round two, and a 1-minute poem in round three.  Those wishing to compete must come prepared for this format.

The show will begin with our regular Open Mic portion, where any & all are welcome to share.  The judges for the slam will be selected from the audience (as is usual practice), and all regular slam rules apply. If there are any questions, or you wish to contact LiPS, you can e-mail us at: lanarklips@hotmail.com or you can find us on Facebook under “LiPS” at https://www.facebook.com/groups/51468539627/
Come and kick away the February “blahs” or share the love by enjoying a night of poetry and entertainment.

MAGAZINE SUBMISSION CALLS:

NO DEADLINES SPECIFIED:

Dreadful Cafe is now soliciting query letters (fiction) and samples (art) for “Thresholds,” their second anthology of art and fiction. All genres are eligible — including short stories, novellettes, and novellas — but preference is given to works that cross more than one and which reflect the flavor and theme. Length: 1000-25000 words. Payment: $20-$250. Deadline: Open.     Guidelines: http://dreadfulcafe.com/thresholds

Strangelet Literary Journal Open to Submissions. Strangelet is a new journal of speculative fiction, accepting fiction, poetry, nonfiction, graphic stories/comics, and artwork. It is now open to submissions of short stories, graphic fiction, poems and essays. It is a paying market.Details: http://www.strangeletjournal.com/submit/

The Traveling Poet (US) is an ezine publishing poetry from writers ages 12-25, and articles on hitchhiking, traveling broke, poverty, and philosophy. Poetry about traveling is ideal, but any subject is welcome. No Beat Generation re-enactments. Deadline: Rolling  Guidelines:
http://travellingpoetblogzine.wordpress.com/

Entertainment and pop culture magazine A Bard’s Tales (Canada) is looking for contributing writers. Payment: $50 for features, $50 for reviews, and $25 for opinion pieces. All pieces must be first pitched (lead to the story, possible sources, rough length, etc) and approved by one of the ABT editors. Deadline: Open.  WEBSITE: http://abardstales.com/

Lunch Ticket, a literary magazine published by the Antioch University Los Angeles Creative Writing MFA Program, is accepting submissions for its monthly Amuse-Bouche feature. Submit creative nonfiction, writing for young people, fiction, poetry and art. Guidelines: http://lunchticket.org/about/submission-guidelines/

New Toronto-based graphic arts mag, Archenemy Magazine, seeks editorials, reviews and creative writing related to comics, illustration and design. Creative pieces will be illustrated by a contributing artist. Also interested in potential regular writers/features. Length: 600–2500 words. Accepting freelance pitches and humour pieces, also. “Compensation is always awarded.” Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: archemag.com/contribute

Maelstrom, a US print literary journal, is currently seeking submissions of poetry, short fiction, art, and photography that is edgy, smart, funny, and/or weird. Length: 5000 words max. or 3-5 poems. Payment: one copy. Deadline: Open.   Guidelines: maelstromjournal.com/submission-guidelines

Poetry Space (UK) is looking for poetry, art, and writing submissions from young writers and artists. All ages welcome. Parents and guardians welcome to submit on child’s behalf. No fees.     Guidelines: poetryspace.co.uk/young-writers-space

The Furious Gazelle seeks short stories, micro fiction, flash fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short plays, monologues, novel excerpts and art. Wants writing that is “good and well written” and art that is “artistic.” Length: 8000 words max. Deadline: ongoing.  Guidelines: thefuriousgazelle.com/about
Online literary magazine The Steel Chisel (Canada) is “perpetually looking” for prose and poetry submissions from Canadian writers. Include a short bio with location, occupation, and any relevant award/publication accomplishments. Deadline: Rolling, on 6th of the month.     Guidelines: http://www.thesteelchisel.ca/contact.html

Circa: A Journal of Historical Fiction (Ottawa, ON) is accepting submissions on a historical theme. Accepts fiction, creative non-fiction, book reviews, and articles that have a fresh take on history. Also appreciates genre-crossing, and speculative and alternative history. Length: 2500 words max. (fiction) and 800 words max. (reviews and articles). As a Canadian journal, Circa especially likes Canadian stories. Deadline: Rolling. Guidelines: circajournal.com/submissions

The Mackinac (Canada/US) seeks poetry that “bridges the strait between nostalgia and the immediate, the wilds seen and unseen, the best of emerging and established voices.” Submit up to 3 to 5 poems for consideration. Deadline: Ongoing.   Guidelines: themackinacmagazine.com/submit.html

Dead Beats (Sheffield, UK), a student-run publishing and live poetry organization, seeks submissions. Accepting poems, short stories (max. 2000 words) and experimental pieces from everyone, regardless of experience. Seeks to “share inspired and inspiring works from around the globe.” No deadline. Guidelines: http://www.deadbeats.eu/submission

Independent hybrid lit mag The Holler Box accepts submissions of poetry, fiction, lyric essays, nonfiction, and artwork year-round. Each issue is published online and in the form of a limited release handmade chapbook. Welcomes the alternative and experimental, as well as new and unpublished writers. Length: 5000 words max (prose) and poetry (up to 3). Guidelines: https://thehollerbox.submittable.com/submit

Quarterly journal Squalorly (US) welcomes submissions of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, illustration, and photography. Submit story/essay (5000 words max), flash pieces (up to 3), and poems (up to 5). Appreciates work with emphasis on emotion: “Move, amaze, horrify, and educate.” http://www.squalorly.com/submit

Running out of Ink, a new webzine, is accepting short stories of all genres. For more information, visit: http://www.runningoutofink.com.

Decoded Past is looking for writers with expertise in history and/or prehistory. This internet site will showcase articles written by experts for the general reader: new interpretations of past events, new developments or theories, the past in the context of the present. Writers must hold a degree in the social sciences or historical sciences and be writing in an area of personal expertise, or have an established platform in professional historical writing. Contact Rosemary Drisdelle at info@rosemarydrisdelle.com.

From the Well House is accepting fiction, scholarly essays and poetry. Details can be found at: http://fromthewellhouse.org/?bu0Dd7M9.

Ruminate Magazine is now accepting submissions. Guidelines and deadlines are available at: http://www.ruminatemagazine.com/submit/submission-guidelines/.

Carousel is accepting submissions. Info: http://www.carouselmagazine.ca/submit.html.
Antiphon: accepting poetry submissions. Info: http://antiphon.org.uk/index.php/submissions.

Convert Publishing, a new digital publisher, is accepting manuscript submissions. For more details, visit: http://convertpublishing.com/?page_id=19.

Neon: A Literary Magazine accepting submissions, info: http://www.neonmagazine.co.uk/

Queen’s Quarterly is accepting articles, reviews, short stories and poetry. Details can be found here: http://www.queensu.ca/quarterly/correspondencesubmissions.html.

Event Poetry and Prose is accepting submissions. Guidelines are available at: http://eventmags.com/about-2/submission-guidelines/fiction-poetry/.

The Ottawa Arts Review seeks prose submissions (including short fiction, personal essays, reviews, and interviews) relating to literary and visual arts, poetry, drama, and visual art. oar.uesa.ca/submissions/submission-guidelines/

New online magazine The Island Review (international) seeks submissions of poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, photography and art from islanders, island-lovers, and those whose work is influenced by islands, or explores ideas of islandness. http://www.theislandreview.com/submissions/

The recently-launched Northern Cardinal Review (Canada) is seeking creative and vivid poetry, non-fiction essays, and book reviews. Open to writers living in Canada, Alaska, or the northern border states of the U.S. http://northerncardinalreview.wordpress.com/submissions/

Comedy website The Higgs Weldon (US) seeks forms of writing (1000 words max.) and cartoons. Deadline: Ongoing: http://thehiggsweldon.com/submit/

Kolaj (Montreal, QC) is a quarterly, print magazine about contemporary collage. Seeks critical reviews and essays, artist profiles, event highlights, articles on collage making, collecting, and exhibiting, and other contributions. Pays. kolajmagazine.com/content/submissions

Formalist poetry review The Rotary Dial (Canada) seeks poetry from Canadian and international writers. Looking for work that rhymes and/or scans but isn’t too versey: blank verse, syllabic verse, etc. Response within two weeks. http://therotarydial.ca/submissions/

Garbanzo Literary Journal (US) is published in limited-run copies as part of a hand-created series of chapbooks. Seeks stories (1172 words max.) poems (43 lines max.), micro-fiction, macro-faction, creative nonfiction, and a variety of verse forms. Appreciates writing that disregards the rules: http://www.garbanzoliteraryjournal.org/Submission_Guidelines.html

BareBacklit is an online bi-monthly magazine seeking poetry, prose, and visual art. Accepts poetry (4 poems max.), fiction (2500 words max.), and flash fiction (1000 words max.). Prefers work that is “unpretentious, minimalist… entertains first, and provokes thought later.” http://www.barebacklit.com/Submissions.html

LWOT (Lies With Occasional Truth) seeks fiction from writers in Canada “(and sometimes by Americans who pretend, in their cover letters, to be Canadian)”. The term fiction is open to interpretation.  : http://lwot.net/submission.htm

Online journal Pithead Chapel seeks fiction (short and flash) and nonfiction (experimental, personal, lyric essays) “that moves toward something bigger… takes chances.” Accepts stories and essays 4000 words max. Reads year-round.  : http://pitheadchapel.com/submission-guidelines/

The New Inquiry welcomes short- and long-form pieces “from anyone who wants to write.” Looks for well-written, original posts on ideas, books, art, culture, and more. No fiction or poetry.  : http://thenewinquiry.com/submit-to-tni/

Website strange bOUnce accepts short stories, satire, and poetry, that have been “lightly brushed with sport.” Send work to IWantToWrite@strangebOUnce.com. No payment. http://strangebounce.com/

Independent magazine Bitterzoet (US) is now looking for new poetry, fiction, and artwork for their monthly online zine and bi-annual print editions, and mini chapbooks. Publishes work that engages in the “interplay between bitterness and sweetness, light and darkness, salvation and damnation.” Accepts poetry (3-8) prose (6 pages max), and artwork. Also looking for shorter pieces (“bonbons”) of poetry (10 lines max) and prose (150 words max.). Deadline: rolling. Guidelines: bitterzoetmag.submittable.com

Independent online journal Black Heart Magazine (U.S) seeks short fiction for its weekday (M-F) publication cycle. Length: 1500 words max. All genres accepted, with a literary angle preferred. Appreciates ‘short-form modern literature, from pulp to literary fiction and everything in-between.’ Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: blackheartmagazine.com/submission-guidelines

2014 DEADLINES:

NEW!  DEADLINE: THE 7TH OF EACH MONTH The Bohemyth is OPEN for submissions. We are based in Dublin, Ireland – but there are no geographic restrictions for submitting. Each new issue of The Bohemyth will published on the 7th of each month. To be considered for publication within an issue, your submission must arrive within the first and last day of the previous month. We will only respond to successful submitters in the first week of each month. Occasionally we will give feedback to unsuccessful submitters. We are looking for contemporary short fiction with a literary bent. We want ideas that affect, engage, move and entertain. We want writing that is beautiful, poetic, thought-provoking, edgy, original and inspiring. We want images that linger in minds. We want words that beat out the beat of broken hearts. We want stories that seduce and savage souls.The word count is less than 2,000 words for short fiction pieces. Max of 2 fiction submissions at a time. We want poetry that attempts to communicate. Max of 6 poems. We want essays that ask more questions than they answer. Max of 2 essays. We are also interested in receiving photography submissions – please send us three to five images saved as jpegs. Include a short bio in the third person and send your submission in the body of an email to thebohemytheditor@gmail.com with ‘Submission’ , and whatever category you’re submitting to, as the title of the email. If you want your blog/website/twitter handle included as part of you bio please send on full links to these.
All works must be the original creation of the writer/photographer. Copyright remains with the artist.

FEBRUARY DEADLINES :

Small-scale print project Highbrau Magazine (ON) seeks submissions for issue #11: “Future Media.” Looking for: arguments and reports about a related topic, satire and comic works, poetry, fiction, comics, infographics and more. Payment: copies and unending admiration and gratitude.” Send to: highbraumagazine@gmail.com. Deadline: February 8, 2014.
PERSIMMON TREE The Editorial Board would like to devote the Spring issue to Politics and Activism. We were inspired to try this by the many responses to the topic Activism for Short Takes. If you are also inspired, send us stories — we need fiction as well as non-fiction — for us to consider. The deadline for submitting is February 21. Please send your submission as an attachment to submissions@persimmontree.org. Include a brief biographical statement (less than 50 words) in your email. The attached document should be saved in MS Word or a compatible program. If we can’t open it, we can’t read it. Submissions should be double-spaced, with 12-point type and numbered pages. At the top of the first page please enter author’s name, address, telephone, and email address. Type the title of the piece, labeled fiction or non-fiction, in the subject line. We look forward to hearing from you. The Editors,
Persimmon Tree: http://www.persimmontree.org
MARCH DEADLINES:

NEW! THE BOHEMYTH SPECIAL EDITION Info for March.  Dear Readers, In tribute to International Women’s Day – which is marked on March 8th annually – we here at The Bohemyth have decided to dedicate our March Issue – which will be published on March 7th – exclusively to women. In an attempt to showcase some of the very best creative talent this generation has to offer, we decided to initially solicit submissions from women who we read, admire, and are excited about seeing what they will do next. The response and enthusiasm for the idea was fantastic. Our line-up is stellar. But. We at The Bohemyth are greedy. We’re greedy for *new*. For promising. For great. For poetry. For fiction. For photography. For essays. And so we have decided to open our submissions, in the hope that unfamiliar names will submit work we think deserves to stand alongside the already amazing pieces we are receiving from our confirmed contributors. Our normal submission guidelines still apply. All that we ask from any prospective submitters to our special March Issue is the following:
– be a woman – have something to say – say it in a way we cannot ignore. http://thebohemyth.com/2014/02/01/info-for-march/

For an upcoming anthology, In Fact Books (US) seeks essays by writers with insight into the nature and experience of profound psychiatric challenges — as patients, mental health professionals, or both. Seeking true narratives about the recovery process and the therapeutic journey. Scientific information should be balanced by the writer’s unique perspective. Stories should reach beyond a strictly personal experience for some universal or deeper meaning. Length: 4500 words max. Open to international writers. Note: $3 to submit online. Deadline: March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: https://www.creativenonfiction.org/submissions/mental-health-anthology

Cleis Press seeks sex toy erotica stories of all varieties for an anthology. Length: 1500-4000 words. Payment: $50/story & 2 copies of book on publication. Deadline: March 1, 2014. http://lustylady.blogspot.ca/2013/12/3-erotica-calls-for-submissions-sex.html

Sunshine in a Jar Press. Looking to get published? Sunshine in a Jar Press is welcoming submissions to its new anthology “The Writing Spiral” which will be released in Fall of 2014. They are seeking poems, memoirs, stories and essays, and possible themes are love, loss, joy, decadence, deprivation, hope, fear, friendship, family, work, social responsibility, health, culture, light, and darkness. There is also the opportunity for monthly writing classes to feed your process at Trent University, Oshawa Campus. Deadline: March 1, 2014 Details: http://www.sunshineinajar.com/ or call 289 252 1978

New Welsh Review (Wales) seeks dynamic, curious, lively, and outward-looking writing. Looking for short stories (2500 to 3000 words) and poems (up to six). Occasionally publishes shorter stories and microfiction. Payment: £100 per story and £28 per each poem, upon publication. Also welcomes submissions and ideas for online content (no payment): short reviews (600-800 words), opinion pieces (450 words) and author interviews (8-15 questions). Deadlines: December 12, 2013 and March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: newwelshreview.com/submissions.php

Jobbers seeking poetry that “reviles, reflects or revels in the art of professional wrestling” for the Jobbers Poetry Zine Collection. Deadline March 21, 2014 (Publication April 15, 2014). http://nathanielgmoore.tumblr.com/

Speculative fiction submissions wanted for anthology Start a Revolution: QUILTBAG Fiction Vying for Change. Published by Exile Editions (Canada) in Spring 2015. International subs welcome. Length: 2,000-10,000 words (< 7.5k preferred). Payment; $0.05/word. Deadline: March 31, 2014    Guidelines: http://michaelmatheson.wordpress.com/start-a-revolution/

Cactus Press (Montreal) is looking to publish a series of poetry chapbooks from Montreal-based writers in preparation for their debut launch. Deadline: March 31, 2014. Theme/length: open. Guidelines: http://cactuspress.blogspot.ca/p/submit.html

AND LATER:

JackPine Press (SK) is seeking proposals for collaborations of poetry and design to be launched as limited edition hand-bound chapbooks in Fall 2014 (and beyond). Attention to literary merit, typography and binding techniques is considered; also, the ways in which the proposed work both challenges the notion of what a book can be while also upholding an excellent standard of writing and bound book design. Deadline: April 16, 2014 GUIDELINES: http://www.jackpinepress.com/guidelines.php

Open access journal Beyond Borderlands: A Critical Journal of the Weird, Paranormal, and Occult (Canada) is a forum for the interdisciplinary, artistic, and critical exploration of topics relating to esotericism, paranormality, and the culturally weird. Accepting letters to the editor, scholarly and popular articles, music, art, creative writing, occult explorations, and reviews. No payment. Deadline: May 1, 2014. guidelines: http://www.beyondborderlands.com/index.php/submissions

The Potomac Review (Montgomery College, Maryland) accepts submissions of poetry (up to three), fiction and nonfiction (5000 words max.), photography, and artwork. Appreciates both realistic and experimental prose and poetry. Deadline: May 1, 2014.  Guidelines: http://cms.montgomerycollege.edu/EDU/Alt.aspx?id=19015

Online journal The California Journal of Women Writers seeks submissions from female writers/poets/students for its second biannual chapbook of short fiction and poetry. Theme: Home — the words, ideas, and images evoked when thinking about home. Length: 2000 words max. Deadline: May 24, 2014.  Guidelines: http://journalwomenwriters.wordpress.com/2013/01/14/seeking-creative-writingpoetry-submissions-for-our-2nd-biannual-chapbook/

Blind Dog Press seeks poems and short prose pieces about the life and work of Arthur Rimbaud for an anthology, Fierce Invalids: A Tribute To Arthur Rimbaud (publications June 2014). Send 1-3 poems along with a short bio to rimbaudsubs@gmail.com. Payment: one copy. Editor: Glenn Cooper. Deadline: May 30, 2014.

UPCOMING WRITING CONTESTS

2014 CONTESTS

DEADLINE NOT SPECIFIED:

NEW! Fjords Review Annual Book Contest. Call for Submissions!!! We’re still accepting submissions to our Annual Book Contest, and we’re looking for the best book manuscripts of fiction, poetry, essay and art. We publish, distribute and advertise the winner throughout our various networks and affiliates, and send review copies to all major review agencies. Plus, all entrants also receive a complimentary year subscription the Fjords biannual issues! You can read more about the contest, check out previous winners and submit your manuscript here: http://ow.ly/t83gr

MULTIPLE DEADLINES:
2nd Annual Story Starters Contest – Ontario Writers’ Conference. On the first of each month, our website will feature an extraordinary work by a local artist and we invite you to enter a piece of writing inspired by that work. Taking inspiration from the picture on our website, write a short piece (100 words maximum) and post it in the comment section of the entry page. It can be any form of writing (poetry, prose, dialogue, haiku, etc.) as long as it is original. Anyone may enter this contest. You may enter as often as you like. English entries only please. Deadline: the last day of the month that the artwork is featured Entry fee: none
Prize: The top ten entries for each month will be sent to our final-round judge who will select a top 3 for each piece of art. The top three entries will be displayed at the 2013 Ontario Writers’ Conference (May 2nd & 3rd in Ajax, Ontario) for final voting by attendees. At the conference, delegates will review and vote for their favourites by ballot. The winning entries will be announced at the conference and each winner will be awarded a prize (tba).
Details: http://thewritersconference.com/whats-new/story-starters-contest/

FEBRUARY DEADLINES:

 OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY´S 19TH ANNUAL AWESOME AUTHORS YOUTH WRITING CONTEST. DEADLINE: February 9, 2014. This contest, for aspiring young poets and short story authors, is open to writers between the ages of 9 and 17. They are invited to submit poems and short stories in English and/or French. The contest deadline is February 9, 2014. Participants can win awesome prizes which will be presented in the Spring. For contest details, visit http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors  or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or mailto: InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca Sponsored by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association. They annually publish pot-pourri, an anthology of the winning poems and stories. pot-pourri also makes a great gift. Visit the Friends of OPL website at http://www.OttawaPublicLibraryFriends.ca to place an order.

 Submissions Open for Disquiet Prize. DEADLINE FEB. 15, 2014. Sponsored by Dzanc Books, the annual DISQUIET Literary Prize in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction is currently open for submissions. A winner in each category will receive publication in a participating literary journal, and one grand-prize winner will receive airfare, accommodations, and tuition—a prize worth approximately $5,000—to attend the fourth annual DISQUIET International Literary Program in Lisbon, Portugal, this summer. The winner in poetry will be published in the Collagist; the winner in fiction will be published in Guernica; and the winner in nonfiction will be published in Ninth Letter. Finalists in each category will be offered partial tuition scholarships to attend the DISQUIET program. Four full scholarships to attend the retreat are also available for writers of Luso descent. Submit up to ten poems or up to twenty pages of prose with a $15 entry fee by February 15. Entries may be submitted online via Submittable https://disquietinternational.submittable.com/submit    or sent by mail to Dzanc Books, the DISQUIET Prize, 610 South Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002. Previously unpublished works in English are eligible. Writers must live or have lived in the United States or Canada, but need not be citizens or permanent residents. MORE INFO: http://www.pw.org/content/submissions_open_for_disquiet_prize

 Entries are welcome for the Friends of the Merril Short Story Contest. First prize: $500. Seeking original, inclusive, previously unpublished speculative fiction. Length: 5000 words max. Entry fee: $5 per entry. Unlimited entries. Deadline: February 15, 2014.  Guidelines: friendsmerrilcontest.com/guidelines

 Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. Competition opens Monday, January 6, 2014, 8 A.M. (EST). Capture the essence of Erma’s writings and you could win $500 and a free registration to the Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop! 525 writers from 7 different countries and 48 states entered the 2012 competition. Erma Bombeck, graduated from the University of Dayton in 1949, lived with her husband and family in Centerville, Ohio, and inspired people worldwide with her columns and books about life’s trials and tribulations. Her memory lives on with the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition hosted every two years by the Washington-Centerville Public Library and the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop hosted by the University of Dayton. Deadline: Feb. 17, 2014 8 AM. More info: http://www.wclibrary.info/erma/index.asp

 NEW! The Nick Blatchford Occasional Verse Contest Deadline  February 28, 2014. This contest is for poems of occasion, either personal or public, poems that make something an occasion or simply mark one. We will award a grand prize of $1000 to the poem judged most worthy. Another $1000 in prize money will be distributed as the judges fancy. However the prize money falls, the best of what we see will be published in The New Quarterly, at our usual rates. Entry fee: $40 for up to 2 unpublished poems, $5 for each additional poem .  Submitters will receive a 1-year subscription (or subscription extension) to The New Quarterly. For full contest details and to enter visit tnq.ca/contests.

 Online and ebook journal Switchback (MFA-run, University of San Francisco, CA) is accepting poems, short stories, essays, and art. Three Editors’ prizes available, including a $200 prize for best piece. No reading fees. Deadline: February 28, 2014.    Guidelines: swback.com/call

 Toronto Star Short Story Contest. The New Year marks the launch of the 36th Toronto Star Short Story Contest, among the largest in Canada and one of the top competitions in North America. With a first prize of $5000 plus tuition for the 30-week creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers valued at $3000, it’s also one of the most lucrative in the country.  This contest is only open to Ontario residents.  Deadline: February 28, 2014. Entry fee: none. Prize: 1st prize: $5000 plus tuition for creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers; 2nd prize: $2000; 3rd prize: $1000. Details: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/01/04/star_short_story_contest_seeks_entries.html

MARCH DEADLINES:

 Grasmere Publishing (BC) invites entries for the Lynn Manuel Children’s Fiction Contest. Prize: $500 cash, $1000 advance against royalties, and publication. Open to novels suitable for children aged 7-16 years old. Looking for an engaging voice, well-developed characters, and a strong storyline. Length: 25,000-75,000 words. No theme, but no violence. Open to Canadian and US residents who have not previously published a novel for children. Deadline: March 1, 2014 (first chapter only). Entry fee: $30. Guidelines: grasmerepublishing.com

 The Conium Review seeks submissions for its Innovative Short Fiction Contest. Judged by Manuel Gonzales. Winner receives $500, publication, five contributor copies, and a copy of the judge’s book. Length: 7500 words max. Entry fee: $15 (includes free issue download). Entry fee: $15. Deadline: March 15, 2014.    Guidelines: coniumreview.com/contests.html

 MSLEXIA 2014 WOMEN’S SHORT STORY COMPETITION.  A competition for unpublished short stories of up to 2,200 words. We accept work on all subjects, so write about anything and everything you fancy – we love to read it. 1ST PRIZE: £2,000 Plus two optional extras: a  week’s writing retreat at Chawton House Library, and a day with a Virago editor.  2nd prize: £500, 3rd prize: £250 Three other finalists each receive £100 Judge: Jane Rogers Closing date: 17 March 2014 All winning stories will be published in the Jun/Jul/Aug 2014 edition of Mslexia Before you enter, find out all you need to know in the competition rules. Ready? Enter the competition. https://mslexia.co.uk/shop/scomp_enter.php

 The Eric Hoffer Award for short prose and books: Winning stories and essays are published in Best New Writing, Book awards are covered in the US Review of Books. Prizes: Two grand prizes are awarded annually: one for short prose (i.e. fiction and creative nonfiction) and one for independent books from small, micro, and academic presses, as well as self-published books. Prizes include a $250 award for short prose and a $2,000 award for best independent book. In addition to the two main grand prize awards, various other honors and distinctions are given for both prose and books, including the Montaigne Medal, the da Vinci Eye, and the First Horizon Award. Submissions accepted each year by nominating books and prose. Book deadline January 21. Prose deadline March 31st. more info at: http://www.hofferaward.com/

 Ascent Aspirations Publishing. Summer Anthology 2014 CONTEST. Call for submissions. Submissions Open From December 2013 to March 31, 2014. THEME: Our theme is the bizarre (as in strikingly unconventional and far-fetched in style or appearance; odd) or (as in markedly unusual in appearance, style, or general character and often involving incongruous or unexpected elements; outrageously or whimsically strange), however there are word limits. Poetry is to be no more than 30 lines including the spaces between stanzas, so that the poem printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on one page. Flash Fiction prose is to be no more than 600 words, so that the prose printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on two pages. To clarify our criteria for this anthology, hone your words, and be a minimalist. FOR MORE INFO: http://www.ascentaspirations.ca/ascentsummer2014.htm

AND LATER:
 Writers Digest Self-Published Competition: Writer’s Digest hosts the 22nd annual self-published competition–the Annual Self-Published Book Awards. This self-published competition, co-sponsored by Book Marketing Works, LLC, spotlights today’s self-published works and honors self-published authors. Early-Bird Deadline: April 1, 2014 A chance to win $3,000 in cash – National exposure for your work. The attention of prospective editors and publishers,  A paid trip to the ever-popular Writer’s Digest Conference! http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/selfpublished?et_mid=652598&rid=239199236

 NEW! 2014 Bristol Short Story Prize is open to all published and unpublished, non-UK and UK based writers over 16 years of age. Stories can be on any theme or subject and entry can be made online via the website or by post. Entries must be previously unpublished with a maximum length of 4,000 words (There is no minimum). The entry fee is £8 per story (about 15 CAD). The closing date for entries is midnight (BST) April 30th 2014. Full details and rules at http://www.bristolprize.co.uk

 The Ontario Poetry Society Arborealis Prize For Poetry. Deadline April 30, 2014. Theme: the people’s poetry tradition. $20 for up to 4 poems, $5. Each additional poem.  See website http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Arborealis%202014.htm

 The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton seeks short stories and poem for its annual Forget Me Not writing contest. Writers have until April 30 to submit stories of no more than 1,800 words, or poems of no more than 72 lines, in categories for writers 16 and older, and those who are younger. All entries, fiction or non-fiction, must begin with the words, “Remember when.” It’s the fifth year for the contest created to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, and raise money for the local chapter of the Alzheimer Society. Submissions by writers age 19 and older must be accompanied by a donation of $20 or more. Judy Doan, executive director of the local chapter, said the contest has attracted as many as 75 entries in a single year. Contest rules are available from the society’s office, 420 East St., N., 519-332-444.

 Writer’s Digest has been shining a spotlight on up and coming writers in all genres through its Annual Writing Competition for more than 80 years. Enter our 83rd Annual Writing Competition for your chance to win and have your work be seen by editors and agents! The winning entries of this writing contest will also be on display in the 83rd Annual Writer’s Digest Competition Collection. Early-Bird Entry Deadline: May 5, 2014. http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/writers-digest-annual-competition?et_mid=657418&rid=239199236

 The New Quarterly invites entries for the The Peter Hinchcliffe Fiction Contest. Prize: $1000. Theme: any unpublished work of short fiction. Entry fee: $40 (includes subscription). All submissions will be considered for paid publication ($250) in the magazine. Deadline: May 28, 2014.     Guidelines: tnq.ca/peter-hinchcliffe-fiction-award

 MULTIPLE DEADLINES: The Antigonish Review’s 2014 Writing Contests: GREAT BLUE HERON POETRY CONTEST & SHELDON CURRIE FICTION PRIZE. $2,400 in Prizes! Deadlines: Fiction entries must be postmarked by May 30, 2014.  Poetry must be postmarked by June 30, 2014.
1. Sheldon Currie Fiction Prize: Stories on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 20 pages. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication.
2. Great Blue Heron Poetry Contest:Poems on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 4 pages. Maximum 150 lines. Entries might be one longer poem, or several shorter poems. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication
Guidelines:  Previously published works, works accepted for publication or simultaneous submissions are ineligible. As well, past winners are ineligible. No electronic submissions, please. Fiction entries must be typed, double-spaced, one side of page only – poetry must be single-spaced. Please include a separate cover sheet containing your identifying information as well as the titles of all entries. Your name must appear ONLY on the cover page. Entry Fee: Canada $25.00; the United States $30.00 (US funds); All others $40.00 (US funds) for either contest. Bonus: You may enter both contests for an additional $10.00. You may enter as often as you like; only your first entry in each category will be eligible for a subscription which will begin with the fall issue, 2014. Make cheques or money orders payable to The Antigonish Review. Mail submissions to: The Antigonish ReviewContest, Box 5000, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada, B2G 2W5. For further information, email TAR@stfx.ca, Phone 902-867-3962 or visit our website at <www.antigonishreview.com>. ENTRIES WILL NOT BE RETURNED; only winners will be notified by September 1, 2014. List of winners will be available at our web site: http://www.antigonishreview.com.

 Entries  invited for the third annual Arizona Mystery Writers Story Contest. First prize $200. Open to mystery, suspense, and thriller. Length: 2500 words max. Open to everyone. Entry fee: $10. Deadline: June 1, 2014. See guidelines at:  arizonamysterywriters.com/?page_id=1449

 The Ontario Poetry Society Sparkle & Shine Poetry Anthology Chapbook Contest. Deadline June 30, 2014.  Various themes.  Fees: 1 poem for $2.00 or 3 poems for $5.00. See website: http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_sparkle&shine%202014.htm

 Aesthetica Creative Writing Competition 2014: Now Open For Entries! Now in its seventh year, the competition champions and nurtures creative talent from across the world in a celebration of outstanding poetry and short fiction. Creative Writing Competition 2014 Prizes:  £500 prize money for the Poetry Winner,  £500 prize money for the Short Fiction Winner, Publication in the Aesthetica Creative Writing Annual,  A selection of books from competition partner organisations. Writers are invited to submit their work into the categories of Short Fiction and Poetry. Fiction entries should be no more than 2,000 words each and poetry entries should be no more than 40 lines each. Both Short Fiction and Poetry entries should be written in English. Submissions previously published elsewhere are accepted. Visit http://www.aestheticamagazine.com/creativewriting to enter.

 The Ontario Poetry Society Food for Thought Contest. Deadline Sept. 30, 2014.  Food-themed poems.  Fees: 1 poem for $5.00 or 3 poems for $10.00.  See website for full details: http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Food%20for%20Thought.htm

 The Ontario Poetry Society Ultra Short Poem Competition. Deadline Oct. 30, 2014.  Poems no longer than 8 lines, 8 words per line. Fees: 1 poem for $2.00 or 3 for $5.00. http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Ultra%20short%20poem14.htm
******

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION BRANCH (NCR)

Weekly Notices for the week of Feb. 3 to Feb. 9, 2014

15 ITEMS 6 NEW 2 NEW CALLS plus  3 NEW CONTESTS

Please send all submission & event notices to Carol Stephen at cstephen0@gmail.com
####Find writing-related services offered by our members at our CAA-NCR website   http://www.canauthors-ottawa.org/hire-a-member.shtml

CAA-NCR EVENTS: NOTE TO CAA MEMBERS: Recently published a novel, won a writing award, had a spectacular book signing or in some other way been recognized within the writing community? Write a short blurb about it & we’ll publish it in Byline, the CAA-NCR branch Magazine. We’re all excited, and encouraged, when someone in our writing family shines. Send a note to Sharyn Heagle, Editor, Byline at <sharyn_40@yahoo.com>

ITEM 1:  CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS TO CAA-NCR’s BYLINE MAGAZINE
If you have an article of interest to writers contact the Editor, Sharyn Heagle, at sharyn_40@yahoo.com. Byline pays 2-1/2 cents per word to a maximum of $25 on publication.   Member promotional material is included in Byline at no cost. Contact the Editor for details.

ITEM 2: 27TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CAPITAL WRITING CONTEST HURRY!
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 7, 2014!

CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION–NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION WRITERS HELPING WRITERS

CATEGORIES: Short Story • Poetry Prizes in Each Category: $300, $200, $100
Guidelines for 2014 NCWC

The contest is open to members of CAA–NCR and/or residents of the National Capital Region
http://www.canauthors-ottawa.org/contests.shtml

CATEGORIES: Short Story (max. 2500 words) and Poetry (not Haiku) (max. 60 lines including title & blank lines)
ENTRIES must be the original, unpublished work of the entrant. Winning entries and/or Honourable Mentions may be published CAA–NCR’s e-mag, Byline, in a CAA–NCR anthology,
or in the Ottawa Citizen. Copyright remains with author.

Finalists are requested to attend CAA–NCR’s 25th Annual NCWC Awards Night, Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at 7 PM, Ottawa Public Library auditorium, 120 Metcalfe Street at Laurier.
Your presence is important to the celebration of your success with fellow entrants, families and friends. First place winners will be asked to read their entries.
 Entries postmarked after midnight FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2014 will be disqualified.
 Submissions not accompanied by entry fee will be disqualified.
 Submissions will be neither acknowledged nor returned.
 Entries not conforming to rules will be disqualified.
 Overpayment of entry fees will not be returned.
 Entry fee: $15 per story; $15 for up to three (3) poems (poems will be judged individually);
 number of entries unlimited.
 Each prose entry must be in English, typed, on 8 1/2 x 11 paper, one side only,  page-numbered consecutively on bottom right of pages. No extra-large type, please!
 Indicate category and title on top left corner of every page.
 Stories must be double-spaced; this is not required for poetry.
 Contest is blind judged. Entrant’s name must NOT appear on the submission(s).
 Include a separate cover page with contest category, story/poem title, name, address,
 phone number, and e-mail address.
 Members of CAA–NCR are entitled to one (1) free entry in one (1) category.
 Make cheques payable to CAA–NCR and designate NCWC.
 CAA–NCR reserves the right to withhold any prize should entries fail to meet expected standards.
Mail entries to: National Capital Writing Contest, 163 BELL ST., N., Box 57081, Ottawa ON K1R 7E1 Attention: Sharyn Heagle, Receiver
Information: Sharyn Heagle, CAA–NCR Contest Coordinator – sharyn_40@yahoo.com.
ITEM 3: CAA-NCR FEBRUARY MEETING

DATE: Tuesday, February 11, 2014 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Main Branch, Ottawa Public Library, Laurier and Metcalfe Streets
No charge for members, $10 for non-members.

PRESENTATION BY ALBERT DUMONT:
While reflecting on your life’s memories you recall a forgotten experience. What is its purpose? Why is it special?
An experience important enough not to be banished from your memory bank in a poem or short story waiting to be written about. Your life is a treasure trove of original verse and prose, parables and teachings for a good life of writing. Learn more with Albert Dumont.

ALBERT DUMONT, Spiritual Advisor, Algonquin, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg,  was employed by Correctional Services Canada for the last three years as a spiritual advisor for the Aboriginal men incarcerated at Millhaven Institution located near Kingston, ON. He is an activist, a volunteer and a poet who has published 5 books of poetry and short stories. In recognition for his work as an activist and volunteer on his ancestral lands (Ottawa and Region) Albert was presented with a Human Rights Award by the Public Service Alliance of Canada in 2010. Albert has dedicated his life to promoting Aboriginal spirituality and healing and to protecting the rights of Aboriginal peoples particularly those as they affect the young.

ITEM 4: CAA  – NCR WORKSHOP COMING UP IN FEBRUARY
BOOK REVIEW HALF DAY WORKSHOP with Emily-Jane Hills Orford

Date: Saturday, February 22, 2014 Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Location: Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa. Building T, Room 230
Parking: available adjacent to Building P, free on weekends.
Cost: $25 members; $40 non-members. Spaces are limited, so register early. Registration: Contact Arlene Smith  somertonsmith@yahoo.com

What is a book review? And, more importantly why are book reviews so important? A book review is news. It is many things to many people. The book reviewer is the messenger, the one who is telling the world what is good or bad about a specific book. Writing book reviews, or any review for that matter, is a tricky business. It is, however, a great way to start a writing career as well as promote one’s own publications. Join our half-day book review workshop and find out what a book review means to you and, better yet, how to write a good book review.

Emily-Jane Hills Orford is a regular book reviewer for allbooks review (http://hstrial-allbooksreview.homestead.com/index.html) as well as Prairie Journal (http://prairiejournal.org/reviews.html). Emily-Jane’s writing reflects her love of Canada and the extra-ordinary Canadians who have made Canada a great nation. Her stories have appeared in History Magazine, Canadian Stories Magazine, and Western People. She has written several fiction and non-fiction books: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter, Ukulele Yukon, Letters From Inside, The Creative Spirit, It Happened in Canada (Books 1, 2, and 3), Personal Notes, The Whistling Bishop, Songs of the Voyageurs and F-Stop: A Life in Pictures.

ITEM 5: THE CAA-NCR FIRST ANNUAL BOOK FEST

DATE: Sat. April 12, 2014, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (lunch break 12:30–1 p.m.)
LOCATION: Clark Hall, RA Centre, 2451 Riverside Drive, Ottawa (free parking++)
ENTRY: $5 coupon which can be used towards purchase of any book!

 RAFFLE: Raffle of donated books, to be held during inter-panel breaks.
 FOOD: Full restaurant/bar within the centre.
 READING: Participating authors will have the opportunity to read x 2 minutes.
 Video tapes of such readings may be possible, at no extra cost.

CAA-NCR is really pleased to announce it will hold its First Annual Book Fest on Saturday April 12, 2014. This will not only display books for signing and sale, but will also permit readers to hear our CAA-NCR authors and other authors in Ottawa and surrounding area read from their books, and possibly discuss them in public discussion groups, to be selected according to genre. This will depend on the number of participating authors in each genre, such as: Canadian fiction, international fiction, gender issues, politics, children’s books, and erotica. List and sequence of panels will be determined and published, once all authors and genres are known.

Half hour long moderated panel discussions will alternate with half hour periods of browsing by readers, who will be able to interact with their favourite authors and ask questions privately at the authors’ tables. Q & A will also be permitted at the end of panel discussions, thus stimulating interest and sales.

 Authors will rent half tables at $40. No sharing. (co-authors may also attend).
 They may have a chance to participate in the discussions, and in 2 minute videos
 of their reading, usable on YouTube.
 Those who pay early will be assigned the best positioned tables.
 Local bookstores may be included ONLY after individual authors have been accommodated, depending on table space, which is limited.

Authors: Please e-mail ghanems@rogers.com Qais Ghanem, VP Electronic Media a list of your books including genre, to reserve a half table or more. You will then be asked to mail your $40 cheque, payable to CAA-NCR to our treasurer (address will be supplied at the time). THANK YOU!
CAA-NCR MEMBER NEWS

ITEM 6: CAA-NCR MEMBER, DR. BOB ABELL, BOOK LAUNCH
NEW!
DATE: Sun. February 9, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
LOCATION: BOOKS ON BEECHWOOD, 35  BEECHWOOD AVE., OTTAWA

Dr. Bob Abell, author of the non-fiction book, Salvaging Capitalism/Saving Democracy
and the dystopian novel The Corporation, will be launching his new adventure/romance novel, Trails, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Reviewers said of Salvaging Capitalism:
“… extraordinarily well researched … It’s funny and fun.
… If you like to see the big picture, you’ll love this book.”
… and of The Corporation:
” Abell’s characters walk right off the page….
brilliant cryptic allusions to dangerous trends
in our society… this book is a must …”

… and now Trails!
Caught in an unexpected storm while hiking in the mountains of Arizona, Shelley barely escapes a flash flood. Is her rescuer knight or knave? From that first cold night in the mountains, a chain of potentially deadly events leads to intrigue and a fast-paced adventure, ranging from the mountains of Arizona to Northern Mexico – with echoes in Washington, D.C.

CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL NEWS
ITEM 7: CANADIAN AUTHORS ASSOCIATION EMERGING WRITER AWARD

The Canadian Authors Emerging Writer Award honours a Canadian writer under 30 who shows exceptional promise in the field of literary creation. Genre doesn’t matter: Poetry, fiction, nonfiction, scripts – published or unpublished. The winner may be selected based on a body of work in a variety of forms, or on a body of work in a single genre or writing form.
Nominations may be made by creative writing instructors, Canadian Authors branches and TWIGs, professional writers, and publishers.
Deadline: March 31, 2014 (postmark). Entry fee: none. Prize: $500 plus a one-year membership with Canadian Authors  Details: http://canadianauthors.org/national/caa-literary-awards/
ITEM 8: CANWRITE! 2014 SHORT STORY CONTEST
It’s back! Canadian Authors’ short story anthology contest is back – and so is your chance to win cash, attend a great conference and get published.  The top 10 stories will be published in an anthology to be launched at this year’s CanWrite! conference and retreat. Download entry form as well as guidelines for details.

Deadline: April 1, 2014 Entry fee: $20 per entry Prize: 1st prize: $200 plus a free conference registration; 2nd prize: $100 plus a free conference registration; 3rd prize: free conference registration
Details: http://canadianauthors.org/conference/canwrite-contest/  or 866 216 6222

OTHER WORKSHOPS

ITEM 9: OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR YOUTH FEBRUARY

Local authors Tudor Robins, Michel Lavoie and JC Sulzenko will each host writing workshops for kids and teens to help them get ready to participate in the Ottawa Public Library´s 19th annual Awesome Authors Youth Writing Contest.

Short Stories: Tudor Robins, Carlingwood, 281 Woodroffe

 Saturday, February 8, 3-4 p.m. Ages 13-17
Poetry: JC Sulzenko, Sunnyside branch, 1049 Bank

Poésie et nouvelles : Michel Lavoie, Succursale Gloucester-nord, 2036 Ogilvie

 Le samedi 8 février, de 14 h à 15 h, Succursale Cumberland, 1599 Tenth Line, Pour les 13 à 17 ans

Online registration is required but programs are free to attend.

OPL invites aspiring young authors to submit poems and short stories in English and/or French before the contest deadline, February 9, 2014. Participants can win awesome prizes which will be presented in the Spring. For contest details, visit
http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors&lt;http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors  or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or mailto: InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca

ITEM 10: 2014 NONFICTION WRITERS CONFERENCE              NEW!

DATE: MAY 7 – 9, 2014
LOCATION: ONLINE EVENT

Join us for the fourth annual Nonfiction Writers Conference May 7 – 9, 2014!

2014 Nonfiction Writers Conference Location: Your Couch – This event is virtual! Once again we will feature 15 speakers over three days, all conducted via teleseminar. Speakers will be  announced in January.
Conference sessions typically run between 9:00 a.m. PST to 4:00 p.m. PST.
See more at:
http://nonfictionwritersconference.com/2014-nonfiction-writers-conference/

SUBMISSION CALLS AND OPPORTUNITIES

ITEM 11: BYWORDS.CA SUBMISSION CALL
DEADLINE:  The 15th of every month for the following month’s issue
Bywords.ca considers previously unpublished poetry from emerging and established poets for our online monthly magazine. We consider work by current and former residents, students and workers of Ottawa. We also publish poems by contributors to our predecessor, the Bywords Monthly Magazine.  FOR SUBMISSION INFORMATION VISIT http://www.bywords.ca and click on Guidelines.  Amanda Earl, Managing Editor.  Check out Bywords.ca’s literary events calendar here: http://www.bywords.ca/calendar/index.php, with up-to-date info on NCR readings, book signings, writers’ circles, literary festivals, spoken word showcases & slams. Event submissions can be sent to events@bywords.ca.

Also check out the latest issue of experiment-o-: Issue 6 – to the others here: http://www.experiment-o.com/

ITEM 12: OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY HOSTS 50+ SHORT STORY CONTEST                                            NEW!

This winter, the Ottawa Public Library is hosting an annual Short Story Contest for older adults. This contest was formerly called the City of Ottawa 55+ Short Story Contest.

Adults 50 years or older, who have a Library card, are eligible to enter. They are invited to submit a maximum of two short stories either in English or French. Stories must be original and unpublished works and under 2000 words. The contest opens February 11, 2014 and the deadline for submissions is March 11, 2014.
Participants can win a cash prize which will be presented at An Afternoon of Storytelling on Wednesday, May 14 during which these authors will each read from their winning stories.

For contest details, visit
http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca   or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca

IN THE INTEREST OF WRITERS HELPING WRITERS

ITEM 13: THE FACTORY READING PRESENTS:
A NIGHT OF READINGS AND CHAPBOOK LAUNCHES   NEW!

DATE: Thursday, February 6, 2014; doors 7:00 p.m; reading 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: The Carleton Tavern, 223 Armstrong Street (at Parkdale; upstairs), OTTAWA lovingly hosted by rob mclennan with readings by:

N.W. Lea (Ottawa ON)
Hugh Thomas (Fredericton NB)
+ m erskine (Toronto ON)

author bios:

N.W. Lea lives and writes in Ottawa. He is the author of two previous chapbooks, light years (above/ground press, 2006) and Actual Girl (The Emergency Response Unit, 2011) as well as the full-length collection, Everything is Movies (Chaudiere Books, 2007). He will be launching his second above/ground press chapbook Present! (2014).

Hugh Thomas is a poet and translator living in Fredericton, where he teaches mathematics at the University of New Brunswick. His most recent chapbook, Opening the Dictionary, published by above/ground press, was shortlisted for the 2012 bpNichol chapbook award. Franzlations,
a collection of illustrated Kafka remixes, created with Gary Barwin and Craig Conley, was published by New Star Books in 2011. He will be launching his second above/ground press chapbook Albanian Suite (2014).

m erskine is a long-time corrupter of words. The poetry condition is responding well to treatment, thanks for asking. She also had an above/ground press poem broadside reprinted in the anthology Groundswell: the best of above/ground press, 1993-2003 (Broken Jaw Press, 2003).
http://www.abovegroundpress.blogspot.ca/2014/01/the-factory-reading-series-lea-thomas.html
ITEM 14: THE ARTISTIC SHOWCASE FEATURING  TITILOPE SONUGA, AMELIA LECLAIR, BRANDON WINT , LUCILA AL MAR AND GUESTS
NEW!
DATE:     Thursday, February 6, 2014 Time:     7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Pressed, 750 Gladstone Ave. Ottawa Cover: $10
As always, The Artistic Showcase will be hosted by local spoken word poet Brandon Wint :)

The Artistic Showcase hibernated during the months of December and January, but in February it will be back with a bang. This month we will be welcoming a lovely mix of artists whose expressions represent various artistic and blood lineages. We will be blessed to hear and witness the talents of featured performers:

 TITILOPE SONUGA (www.titilope.ca)
 AMELIA LECLAIR (https://myspace.com/amelialeclair)
 BRANDON WINT (www.brandonwint.ca)
 LUCILA AL MAR

along with special guest performances by: RASHMI LOGO and SUZY PANKHURST and DOHNIA

ITEM 15:  LIPS FEBRUARY SLAM                        NEW!

DATE:  Friday, February 7, 2014     TIME:  7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30)
LOCATION:  Thirsty Moose Restaurant – UPSTAIRS (20 Bridge St., Carleton Place)
COST:  $5.00 per person

The Live Poets Society of Lanark County (aka LiPS) is presenting an exciting new format for our February 2014 SLAM. The event is the LiPS 3-2-1…Raise It! SLAM.

It will have 3 rounds (instead of the regular 2 rounds).  Poets will slam a 3-minute poem in round one, a 2-minute poem in round two, and a 1-minute poem in round three.  Those wishing to compete must come prepared for this format.

The show will begin with our regular Open Mic portion, where any & all are welcome to share.  The judges for the slam will be selected from the audience (as is usual practice), and all regular slam rules apply. If there are any questions, or you wish to contact LiPS, you can e-mail us at: lanarklips@hotmail.com or you can find us on Facebook under “LiPS” at https://www.facebook.com/groups/51468539627/
Come and kick away the February “blahs” or share the love by enjoying a night of poetry and entertainment.
MAGAZINE SUBMISSION CALLS:

NO DEADLINES SPECIFIED:

Dreadful Cafe is now soliciting query letters (fiction) and samples (art) for “Thresholds,” their second anthology of art and fiction. All genres are eligible — including short stories, novellettes, and novellas — but preference is given to works that cross more than one and which reflect the flavor and theme. Length: 1000-25000 words. Payment: $20-$250. Deadline: Open.     Guidelines: http://dreadfulcafe.com/thresholds

Strangelet Literary Journal Open to Submissions. Strangelet is a new journal of speculative fiction, accepting fiction, poetry, nonfiction, graphic stories/comics, and artwork. It is now open to submissions of short stories, graphic fiction, poems and essays. It is a paying market.Details: http://www.strangeletjournal.com/submit/

The Traveling Poet (US) is an ezine publishing poetry from writers ages 12-25, and articles on hitchhiking, traveling broke, poverty, and philosophy. Poetry about traveling is ideal, but any subject is welcome. No Beat Generation re-enactments. Deadline: Rolling  Guidelines:
http://travellingpoetblogzine.wordpress.com/

Entertainment and pop culture magazine A Bard’s Tales (Canada) is looking for contributing writers. Payment: $50 for features, $50 for reviews, and $25 for opinion pieces. All pieces must be first pitched (lead to the story, possible sources, rough length, etc) and approved by one of the ABT editors. Deadline: Open.  WEBSITE: http://abardstales.com/

Lunch Ticket, a literary magazine published by the Antioch University Los Angeles Creative Writing MFA Program, is accepting submissions for its monthly Amuse-Bouche feature. Submit creative nonfiction, writing for young people, fiction, poetry and art. Guidelines: http://lunchticket.org/about/submission-guidelines/

New Toronto-based graphic arts mag, Archenemy Magazine, seeks editorials, reviews and creative writing related to comics, illustration and design. Creative pieces will be illustrated by a contributing artist. Also interested in potential regular writers/features. Length: 600–2500 words. Accepting freelance pitches and humour pieces, also. “Compensation is always awarded.” Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: archemag.com/contribute

Maelstrom, a US print literary journal, is currently seeking submissions of poetry, short fiction, art, and photography that is edgy, smart, funny, and/or weird. Length: 5000 words max. or 3-5 poems. Payment: one copy. Deadline: Open.   Guidelines: maelstromjournal.com/submission-guidelines

Poetry Space (UK) is looking for poetry, art, and writing submissions from young writers and artists. All ages welcome. Parents and guardians welcome to submit on child’s behalf. No fees.     Guidelines: poetryspace.co.uk/young-writers-space

The Furious Gazelle seeks short stories, micro fiction, flash fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short plays, monologues, novel excerpts and art. Wants writing that is “good and well written” and art that is “artistic.” Length: 8000 words max. Deadline: ongoing.  Guidelines: thefuriousgazelle.com/about
Online literary magazine The Steel Chisel (Canada) is “perpetually looking” for prose and poetry submissions from Canadian writers. Include a short bio with location, occupation, and any relevant award/publication accomplishments. Deadline: Rolling, on 6th of the month.     Guidelines: http://www.thesteelchisel.ca/contact.html

Circa: A Journal of Historical Fiction (Ottawa, ON) is accepting submissions on a historical theme. Accepts fiction, creative non-fiction, book reviews, and articles that have a fresh take on history. Also appreciates genre-crossing, and speculative and alternative history. Length: 2500 words max. (fiction) and 800 words max. (reviews and articles). As a Canadian journal, Circa especially likes Canadian stories. Deadline: Rolling. Guidelines: circajournal.com/submissions

The Mackinac (Canada/US) seeks poetry that “bridges the strait between nostalgia and the immediate, the wilds seen and unseen, the best of emerging and established voices.” Submit up to 3 to 5 poems for consideration. Deadline: Ongoing.   Guidelines: themackinacmagazine.com/submit.html

Dead Beats (Sheffield, UK), a student-run publishing and live poetry organization, seeks submissions. Accepting poems, short stories (max. 2000 words) and experimental pieces from everyone, regardless of experience. Seeks to “share inspired and inspiring works from around the globe.” No deadline. Guidelines: http://www.deadbeats.eu/submission

Independent hybrid lit mag The Holler Box accepts submissions of poetry, fiction, lyric essays, nonfiction, and artwork year-round. Each issue is published online and in the form of a limited release handmade chapbook. Welcomes the alternative and experimental, as well as new and unpublished writers. Length: 5000 words max (prose) and poetry (up to 3). Guidelines: https://thehollerbox.submittable.com/submit

Quarterly journal Squalorly (US) welcomes submissions of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, illustration, and photography. Submit story/essay (5000 words max), flash pieces (up to 3), and poems (up to 5). Appreciates work with emphasis on emotion: “Move, amaze, horrify, and educate.” http://www.squalorly.com/submit

Running out of Ink, a new webzine, is accepting short stories of all genres. For more information, visit: http://www.runningoutofink.com.

Decoded Past is looking for writers with expertise in history and/or prehistory. This internet site will showcase articles written by experts for the general reader: new interpretations of past events, new developments or theories, the past in the context of the present. Writers must hold a degree in the social sciences or historical sciences and be writing in an area of personal expertise, or have an established platform in professional historical writing. Contact Rosemary Drisdelle at info@rosemarydrisdelle.com.

From the Well House is accepting fiction, scholarly essays and poetry. Details can be found at: http://fromthewellhouse.org/?bu0Dd7M9.

Ruminate Magazine is now accepting submissions. Guidelines and deadlines are available at: http://www.ruminatemagazine.com/submit/submission-guidelines/.

Carousel is accepting submissions. Info: http://www.carouselmagazine.ca/submit.html.
Antiphon: accepting poetry submissions. Info: http://antiphon.org.uk/index.php/submissions.

Convert Publishing, a new digital publisher, is accepting manuscript submissions. For more details, visit: http://convertpublishing.com/?page_id=19.

Neon: A Literary Magazine accepting submissions, info: http://www.neonmagazine.co.uk/

Queen’s Quarterly is accepting articles, reviews, short stories and poetry. Details can be found here: http://www.queensu.ca/quarterly/correspondencesubmissions.html.

Event Poetry and Prose is accepting submissions. Guidelines are available at: http://eventmags.com/about-2/submission-guidelines/fiction-poetry/.

The Ottawa Arts Review seeks prose submissions (including short fiction, personal essays, reviews, and interviews) relating to literary and visual arts, poetry, drama, and visual art. oar.uesa.ca/submissions/submission-guidelines/

New online magazine The Island Review (international) seeks submissions of poetry, short fiction, non-fiction, photography and art from islanders, island-lovers, and those whose work is influenced by islands, or explores ideas of islandness. http://www.theislandreview.com/submissions/

The recently-launched Northern Cardinal Review (Canada) is seeking creative and vivid poetry, non-fiction essays, and book reviews. Open to writers living in Canada, Alaska, or the northern border states of the U.S. http://northerncardinalreview.wordpress.com/submissions/

Comedy website The Higgs Weldon (US) seeks forms of writing (1000 words max.) and cartoons. Deadline: Ongoing: http://thehiggsweldon.com/submit/

Kolaj (Montreal, QC) is a quarterly, print magazine about contemporary collage. Seeks critical reviews and essays, artist profiles, event highlights, articles on collage making, collecting, and exhibiting, and other contributions. Pays. kolajmagazine.com/content/submissions

Formalist poetry review The Rotary Dial (Canada) seeks poetry from Canadian and international writers. Looking for work that rhymes and/or scans but isn’t too versey: blank verse, syllabic verse, etc. Response within two weeks. http://therotarydial.ca/submissions/

Garbanzo Literary Journal (US) is published in limited-run copies as part of a hand-created series of chapbooks. Seeks stories (1172 words max.) poems (43 lines max.), micro-fiction, macro-faction, creative nonfiction, and a variety of verse forms. Appreciates writing that disregards the rules: http://www.garbanzoliteraryjournal.org/Submission_Guidelines.html

BareBacklit is an online bi-monthly magazine seeking poetry, prose, and visual art. Accepts poetry (4 poems max.), fiction (2500 words max.), and flash fiction (1000 words max.). Prefers work that is “unpretentious, minimalist… entertains first, and provokes thought later.” http://www.barebacklit.com/Submissions.html

LWOT (Lies With Occasional Truth) seeks fiction from writers in Canada “(and sometimes by Americans who pretend, in their cover letters, to be Canadian)”. The term fiction is open to interpretation.  : http://lwot.net/submission.htm

Online journal Pithead Chapel seeks fiction (short and flash) and nonfiction (experimental, personal, lyric essays) “that moves toward something bigger… takes chances.” Accepts stories and essays 4000 words max. Reads year-round.  : http://pitheadchapel.com/submission-guidelines/

The New Inquiry welcomes short- and long-form pieces “from anyone who wants to write.” Looks for well-written, original posts on ideas, books, art, culture, and more. No fiction or poetry.  : http://thenewinquiry.com/submit-to-tni/

Website strange bOUnce accepts short stories, satire, and poetry, that have been “lightly brushed with sport.” Send work to IWantToWrite@strangebOUnce.com. No payment. http://strangebounce.com/

Independent magazine Bitterzoet (US) is now looking for new poetry, fiction, and artwork for their monthly online zine and bi-annual print editions, and mini chapbooks. Publishes work that engages in the “interplay between bitterness and sweetness, light and darkness, salvation and damnation.” Accepts poetry (3-8) prose (6 pages max), and artwork. Also looking for shorter pieces (“bonbons”) of poetry (10 lines max) and prose (150 words max.). Deadline: rolling. Guidelines: bitterzoetmag.submittable.com

Independent online journal Black Heart Magazine (U.S) seeks short fiction for its weekday (M-F) publication cycle. Length: 1500 words max. All genres accepted, with a literary angle preferred. Appreciates ‘short-form modern literature, from pulp to literary fiction and everything in-between.’ Deadline: Ongoing. Guidelines: blackheartmagazine.com/submission-guidelines

2014 DEADLINES:

NEW!  DEADLINE: THE 7TH OF EACH MONTH The Bohemyth is OPEN for submissions. We are based in Dublin, Ireland – but there are no geographic restrictions for submitting. Each new issue of The Bohemyth will published on the 7th of each month. To be considered for publication within an issue, your submission must arrive within the first and last day of the previous month. We will only respond to successful submitters in the first week of each month. Occasionally we will give feedback to unsuccessful submitters. We are looking for contemporary short fiction with a literary bent. We want ideas that affect, engage, move and entertain. We want writing that is beautiful, poetic, thought-provoking, edgy, original and inspiring. We want images that linger in minds. We want words that beat out the beat of broken hearts. We want stories that seduce and savage souls.The word count is less than 2,000 words for short fiction pieces. Max of 2 fiction submissions at a time. We want poetry that attempts to communicate. Max of 6 poems. We want essays that ask more questions than they answer. Max of 2 essays. We are also interested in receiving photography submissions – please send us three to five images saved as jpegs. Include a short bio in the third person and send your submission in the body of an email to thebohemytheditor@gmail.com with ‘Submission’ , and whatever category you’re submitting to, as the title of the email. If you want your blog/website/twitter handle included as part of you bio please send on full links to these.
All works must be the original creation of the writer/photographer. Copyright remains with the artist.

FEBRUARY DEADLINES :

Small-scale print project Highbrau Magazine (ON) seeks submissions for issue #11: “Future Media.” Looking for: arguments and reports about a related topic, satire and comic works, poetry, fiction, comics, infographics and more. Payment: copies and unending admiration and gratitude.” Send to: highbraumagazine@gmail.com. Deadline: February 8, 2014.
PERSIMMON TREE The Editorial Board would like to devote the Spring issue to Politics and Activism. We were inspired to try this by the many responses to the topic Activism for Short Takes. If you are also inspired, send us stories — we need fiction as well as non-fiction — for us to consider. The deadline for submitting is February 21. Please send your submission as an attachment to submissions@persimmontree.org. Include a brief biographical statement (less than 50 words) in your email. The attached document should be saved in MS Word or a compatible program. If we can’t open it, we can’t read it. Submissions should be double-spaced, with 12-point type and numbered pages. At the top of the first page please enter author’s name, address, telephone, and email address. Type the title of the piece, labeled fiction or non-fiction, in the subject line. We look forward to hearing from you. The Editors,
Persimmon Tree: http://www.persimmontree.org
MARCH DEADLINES:

NEW! THE BOHEMYTH SPECIAL EDITION Info for March.  Dear Readers, In tribute to International Women’s Day – which is marked on March 8th annually – we here at The Bohemyth have decided to dedicate our March Issue – which will be published on March 7th – exclusively to women. In an attempt to showcase some of the very best creative talent this generation has to offer, we decided to initially solicit submissions from women who we read, admire, and are excited about seeing what they will do next. The response and enthusiasm for the idea was fantastic. Our line-up is stellar. But. We at The Bohemyth are greedy. We’re greedy for *new*. For promising. For great. For poetry. For fiction. For photography. For essays. And so we have decided to open our submissions, in the hope that unfamiliar names will submit work we think deserves to stand alongside the already amazing pieces we are receiving from our confirmed contributors. Our normal submission guidelines still apply. All that we ask from any prospective submitters to our special March Issue is the following:
– be a woman – have something to say – say it in a way we cannot ignore. http://thebohemyth.com/2014/02/01/info-for-march/

For an upcoming anthology, In Fact Books (US) seeks essays by writers with insight into the nature and experience of profound psychiatric challenges — as patients, mental health professionals, or both. Seeking true narratives about the recovery process and the therapeutic journey. Scientific information should be balanced by the writer’s unique perspective. Stories should reach beyond a strictly personal experience for some universal or deeper meaning. Length: 4500 words max. Open to international writers. Note: $3 to submit online. Deadline: March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: https://www.creativenonfiction.org/submissions/mental-health-anthology

Cleis Press seeks sex toy erotica stories of all varieties for an anthology. Length: 1500-4000 words. Payment: $50/story & 2 copies of book on publication. Deadline: March 1, 2014. http://lustylady.blogspot.ca/2013/12/3-erotica-calls-for-submissions-sex.html

Sunshine in a Jar Press. Looking to get published? Sunshine in a Jar Press is welcoming submissions to its new anthology “The Writing Spiral” which will be released in Fall of 2014. They are seeking poems, memoirs, stories and essays, and possible themes are love, loss, joy, decadence, deprivation, hope, fear, friendship, family, work, social responsibility, health, culture, light, and darkness. There is also the opportunity for monthly writing classes to feed your process at Trent University, Oshawa Campus. Deadline: March 1, 2014 Details: http://www.sunshineinajar.com/ or call 289 252 1978

New Welsh Review (Wales) seeks dynamic, curious, lively, and outward-looking writing. Looking for short stories (2500 to 3000 words) and poems (up to six). Occasionally publishes shorter stories and microfiction. Payment: £100 per story and £28 per each poem, upon publication. Also welcomes submissions and ideas for online content (no payment): short reviews (600-800 words), opinion pieces (450 words) and author interviews (8-15 questions). Deadlines: December 12, 2013 and March 1, 2014.  Guidelines: newwelshreview.com/submissions.php

Jobbers seeking poetry that “reviles, reflects or revels in the art of professional wrestling” for the Jobbers Poetry Zine Collection. Deadline March 21, 2014 (Publication April 15, 2014). http://nathanielgmoore.tumblr.com/

Speculative fiction submissions wanted for anthology Start a Revolution: QUILTBAG Fiction Vying for Change. Published by Exile Editions (Canada) in Spring 2015. International subs welcome. Length: 2,000-10,000 words (< 7.5k preferred). Payment; $0.05/word. Deadline: March 31, 2014    Guidelines: http://michaelmatheson.wordpress.com/start-a-revolution/

Cactus Press (Montreal) is looking to publish a series of poetry chapbooks from Montreal-based writers in preparation for their debut launch. Deadline: March 31, 2014. Theme/length: open. Guidelines: http://cactuspress.blogspot.ca/p/submit.html

AND LATER:

JackPine Press (SK) is seeking proposals for collaborations of poetry and design to be launched as limited edition hand-bound chapbooks in Fall 2014 (and beyond). Attention to literary merit, typography and binding techniques is considered; also, the ways in which the proposed work both challenges the notion of what a book can be while also upholding an excellent standard of writing and bound book design. Deadline: April 16, 2014 GUIDELINES: http://www.jackpinepress.com/guidelines.php

Open access journal Beyond Borderlands: A Critical Journal of the Weird, Paranormal, and Occult (Canada) is a forum for the interdisciplinary, artistic, and critical exploration of topics relating to esotericism, paranormality, and the culturally weird. Accepting letters to the editor, scholarly and popular articles, music, art, creative writing, occult explorations, and reviews. No payment. Deadline: May 1, 2014. guidelines: http://www.beyondborderlands.com/index.php/submissions

The Potomac Review (Montgomery College, Maryland) accepts submissions of poetry (up to three), fiction and nonfiction (5000 words max.), photography, and artwork. Appreciates both realistic and experimental prose and poetry. Deadline: May 1, 2014.  Guidelines: http://cms.montgomerycollege.edu/EDU/Alt.aspx?id=19015

Online journal The California Journal of Women Writers seeks submissions from female writers/poets/students for its second biannual chapbook of short fiction and poetry. Theme: Home — the words, ideas, and images evoked when thinking about home. Length: 2000 words max. Deadline: May 24, 2014.  Guidelines: http://journalwomenwriters.wordpress.com/2013/01/14/seeking-creative-writingpoetry-submissions-for-our-2nd-biannual-chapbook/

Blind Dog Press seeks poems and short prose pieces about the life and work of Arthur Rimbaud for an anthology, Fierce Invalids: A Tribute To Arthur Rimbaud (publications June 2014). Send 1-3 poems along with a short bio to rimbaudsubs@gmail.com. Payment: one copy. Editor: Glenn Cooper. Deadline: May 30, 2014.

UPCOMING WRITING CONTESTS

2014 CONTESTS

DEADLINE NOT SPECIFIED:

NEW! Fjords Review Annual Book Contest. Call for Submissions!!! We’re still accepting submissions to our Annual Book Contest, and we’re looking for the best book manuscripts of fiction, poetry, essay and art. We publish, distribute and advertise the winner throughout our various networks and affiliates, and send review copies to all major review agencies. Plus, all entrants also receive a complimentary year subscription the Fjords biannual issues! You can read more about the contest, check out previous winners and submit your manuscript here: http://ow.ly/t83gr

MULTIPLE DEADLINES:
2nd Annual Story Starters Contest – Ontario Writers’ Conference. On the first of each month, our website will feature an extraordinary work by a local artist and we invite you to enter a piece of writing inspired by that work. Taking inspiration from the picture on our website, write a short piece (100 words maximum) and post it in the comment section of the entry page. It can be any form of writing (poetry, prose, dialogue, haiku, etc.) as long as it is original. Anyone may enter this contest. You may enter as often as you like. English entries only please. Deadline: the last day of the month that the artwork is featured Entry fee: none
Prize: The top ten entries for each month will be sent to our final-round judge who will select a top 3 for each piece of art. The top three entries will be displayed at the 2013 Ontario Writers’ Conference (May 2nd & 3rd in Ajax, Ontario) for final voting by attendees. At the conference, delegates will review and vote for their favourites by ballot. The winning entries will be announced at the conference and each winner will be awarded a prize (tba).
Details: http://thewritersconference.com/whats-new/story-starters-contest/

FEBRUARY DEADLINES:

 OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY´S 19TH ANNUAL AWESOME AUTHORS YOUTH WRITING CONTEST. DEADLINE: February 9, 2014. This contest, for aspiring young poets and short story authors, is open to writers between the ages of 9 and 17. They are invited to submit poems and short stories in English and/or French. The contest deadline is February 9, 2014. Participants can win awesome prizes which will be presented in the Spring. For contest details, visit http://www.BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca/AwesomeAuthors  or contact InfoService at 613-580-2940 or mailto: InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca Sponsored by the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association. They annually publish pot-pourri, an anthology of the winning poems and stories. pot-pourri also makes a great gift. Visit the Friends of OPL website at http://www.OttawaPublicLibraryFriends.ca to place an order.

 Submissions Open for Disquiet Prize. DEADLINE FEB. 15, 2014. Sponsored by Dzanc Books, the annual DISQUIET Literary Prize in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction is currently open for submissions. A winner in each category will receive publication in a participating literary journal, and one grand-prize winner will receive airfare, accommodations, and tuition—a prize worth approximately $5,000—to attend the fourth annual DISQUIET International Literary Program in Lisbon, Portugal, this summer. The winner in poetry will be published in the Collagist; the winner in fiction will be published in Guernica; and the winner in nonfiction will be published in Ninth Letter. Finalists in each category will be offered partial tuition scholarships to attend the DISQUIET program. Four full scholarships to attend the retreat are also available for writers of Luso descent. Submit up to ten poems or up to twenty pages of prose with a $15 entry fee by February 15. Entries may be submitted online via Submittable https://disquietinternational.submittable.com/submit    or sent by mail to Dzanc Books, the DISQUIET Prize, 610 South Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002. Previously unpublished works in English are eligible. Writers must live or have lived in the United States or Canada, but need not be citizens or permanent residents. MORE INFO: http://www.pw.org/content/submissions_open_for_disquiet_prize

 Entries are welcome for the Friends of the Merril Short Story Contest. First prize: $500. Seeking original, inclusive, previously unpublished speculative fiction. Length: 5000 words max. Entry fee: $5 per entry. Unlimited entries. Deadline: February 15, 2014.  Guidelines: friendsmerrilcontest.com/guidelines

 Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. Competition opens Monday, January 6, 2014, 8 A.M. (EST). Capture the essence of Erma’s writings and you could win $500 and a free registration to the Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop! 525 writers from 7 different countries and 48 states entered the 2012 competition. Erma Bombeck, graduated from the University of Dayton in 1949, lived with her husband and family in Centerville, Ohio, and inspired people worldwide with her columns and books about life’s trials and tribulations. Her memory lives on with the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition hosted every two years by the Washington-Centerville Public Library and the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop hosted by the University of Dayton. Deadline: Feb. 17, 2014 8 AM. More info: http://www.wclibrary.info/erma/index.asp

 NEW! The Nick Blatchford Occasional Verse Contest Deadline  February 28, 2014. This contest is for poems of occasion, either personal or public, poems that make something an occasion or simply mark one. We will award a grand prize of $1000 to the poem judged most worthy. Another $1000 in prize money will be distributed as the judges fancy. However the prize money falls, the best of what we see will be published in The New Quarterly, at our usual rates. Entry fee: $40 for up to 2 unpublished poems, $5 for each additional poem .  Submitters will receive a 1-year subscription (or subscription extension) to The New Quarterly. For full contest details and to enter visit tnq.ca/contests.

 Online and ebook journal Switchback (MFA-run, University of San Francisco, CA) is accepting poems, short stories, essays, and art. Three Editors’ prizes available, including a $200 prize for best piece. No reading fees. Deadline: February 28, 2014.    Guidelines: swback.com/call

 Toronto Star Short Story Contest. The New Year marks the launch of the 36th Toronto Star Short Story Contest, among the largest in Canada and one of the top competitions in North America. With a first prize of $5000 plus tuition for the 30-week creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers valued at $3000, it’s also one of the most lucrative in the country.  This contest is only open to Ontario residents.  Deadline: February 28, 2014. Entry fee: none. Prize: 1st prize: $5000 plus tuition for creative writing correspondence program at the Humber School for Writers; 2nd prize: $2000; 3rd prize: $1000. Details: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2014/01/04/star_short_story_contest_seeks_entries.html

MARCH DEADLINES:

 Grasmere Publishing (BC) invites entries for the Lynn Manuel Children’s Fiction Contest. Prize: $500 cash, $1000 advance against royalties, and publication. Open to novels suitable for children aged 7-16 years old. Looking for an engaging voice, well-developed characters, and a strong storyline. Length: 25,000-75,000 words. No theme, but no violence. Open to Canadian and US residents who have not previously published a novel for children. Deadline: March 1, 2014 (first chapter only). Entry fee: $30. Guidelines: grasmerepublishing.com

 The Conium Review seeks submissions for its Innovative Short Fiction Contest. Judged by Manuel Gonzales. Winner receives $500, publication, five contributor copies, and a copy of the judge’s book. Length: 7500 words max. Entry fee: $15 (includes free issue download). Entry fee: $15. Deadline: March 15, 2014.    Guidelines: coniumreview.com/contests.html

 MSLEXIA 2014 WOMEN’S SHORT STORY COMPETITION.  A competition for unpublished short stories of up to 2,200 words. We accept work on all subjects, so write about anything and everything you fancy – we love to read it. 1ST PRIZE: £2,000 Plus two optional extras: a  week’s writing retreat at Chawton House Library, and a day with a Virago editor.  2nd prize: £500, 3rd prize: £250 Three other finalists each receive £100 Judge: Jane Rogers Closing date: 17 March 2014 All winning stories will be published in the Jun/Jul/Aug 2014 edition of Mslexia Before you enter, find out all you need to know in the competition rules. Ready? Enter the competition. https://mslexia.co.uk/shop/scomp_enter.php

 The Eric Hoffer Award for short prose and books: Winning stories and essays are published in Best New Writing, Book awards are covered in the US Review of Books. Prizes: Two grand prizes are awarded annually: one for short prose (i.e. fiction and creative nonfiction) and one for independent books from small, micro, and academic presses, as well as self-published books. Prizes include a $250 award for short prose and a $2,000 award for best independent book. In addition to the two main grand prize awards, various other honors and distinctions are given for both prose and books, including the Montaigne Medal, the da Vinci Eye, and the First Horizon Award. Submissions accepted each year by nominating books and prose. Book deadline January 21. Prose deadline March 31st. more info at: http://www.hofferaward.com/

 Ascent Aspirations Publishing. Summer Anthology 2014 CONTEST. Call for submissions. Submissions Open From December 2013 to March 31, 2014. THEME: Our theme is the bizarre (as in strikingly unconventional and far-fetched in style or appearance; odd) or (as in markedly unusual in appearance, style, or general character and often involving incongruous or unexpected elements; outrageously or whimsically strange), however there are word limits. Poetry is to be no more than 30 lines including the spaces between stanzas, so that the poem printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on one page. Flash Fiction prose is to be no more than 600 words, so that the prose printed in 11 pt. font Times Roman will fit on two pages. To clarify our criteria for this anthology, hone your words, and be a minimalist. FOR MORE INFO: http://www.ascentaspirations.ca/ascentsummer2014.htm

AND LATER:
 Writers Digest Self-Published Competition: Writer’s Digest hosts the 22nd annual self-published competition–the Annual Self-Published Book Awards. This self-published competition, co-sponsored by Book Marketing Works, LLC, spotlights today’s self-published works and honors self-published authors. Early-Bird Deadline: April 1, 2014 A chance to win $3,000 in cash – National exposure for your work. The attention of prospective editors and publishers,  A paid trip to the ever-popular Writer’s Digest Conference! http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/selfpublished?et_mid=652598&rid=239199236

 NEW! 2014 Bristol Short Story Prize is open to all published and unpublished, non-UK and UK based writers over 16 years of age. Stories can be on any theme or subject and entry can be made online via the website or by post. Entries must be previously unpublished with a maximum length of 4,000 words (There is no minimum). The entry fee is £8 per story (about 15 CAD). The closing date for entries is midnight (BST) April 30th 2014. Full details and rules at http://www.bristolprize.co.uk

 The Ontario Poetry Society Arborealis Prize For Poetry. Deadline April 30, 2014. Theme: the people’s poetry tradition. $20 for up to 4 poems, $5. Each additional poem.  See website http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Arborealis%202014.htm

 The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton seeks short stories and poem for its annual Forget Me Not writing contest. Writers have until April 30 to submit stories of no more than 1,800 words, or poems of no more than 72 lines, in categories for writers 16 and older, and those who are younger. All entries, fiction or non-fiction, must begin with the words, “Remember when.” It’s the fifth year for the contest created to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, and raise money for the local chapter of the Alzheimer Society. Submissions by writers age 19 and older must be accompanied by a donation of $20 or more. Judy Doan, executive director of the local chapter, said the contest has attracted as many as 75 entries in a single year. Contest rules are available from the society’s office, 420 East St., N., 519-332-444.

 Writer’s Digest has been shining a spotlight on up and coming writers in all genres through its Annual Writing Competition for more than 80 years. Enter our 83rd Annual Writing Competition for your chance to win and have your work be seen by editors and agents! The winning entries of this writing contest will also be on display in the 83rd Annual Writer’s Digest Competition Collection. Early-Bird Entry Deadline: May 5, 2014. http://www.writersdigest.com/competitions/writers-digest-annual-competition?et_mid=657418&rid=239199236

 The New Quarterly invites entries for the The Peter Hinchcliffe Fiction Contest. Prize: $1000. Theme: any unpublished work of short fiction. Entry fee: $40 (includes subscription). All submissions will be considered for paid publication ($250) in the magazine. Deadline: May 28, 2014.     Guidelines: tnq.ca/peter-hinchcliffe-fiction-award

 MULTIPLE DEADLINES: The Antigonish Review’s 2014 Writing Contests: GREAT BLUE HERON POETRY CONTEST & SHELDON CURRIE FICTION PRIZE. $2,400 in Prizes! Deadlines: Fiction entries must be postmarked by May 30, 2014.  Poetry must be postmarked by June 30, 2014.
1. Sheldon Currie Fiction Prize: Stories on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 20 pages. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication.
2. Great Blue Heron Poetry Contest:Poems on any subject. Total entry not to exceed 4 pages. Maximum 150 lines. Entries might be one longer poem, or several shorter poems. First prize:$600 & publication; Second prize: $400 & publication; Third prize: $200 & publication
Guidelines:  Previously published works, works accepted for publication or simultaneous submissions are ineligible. As well, past winners are ineligible. No electronic submissions, please. Fiction entries must be typed, double-spaced, one side of page only – poetry must be single-spaced. Please include a separate cover sheet containing your identifying information as well as the titles of all entries. Your name must appear ONLY on the cover page. Entry Fee: Canada $25.00; the United States $30.00 (US funds); All others $40.00 (US funds) for either contest. Bonus: You may enter both contests for an additional $10.00. You may enter as often as you like; only your first entry in each category will be eligible for a subscription which will begin with the fall issue, 2014. Make cheques or money orders payable to The Antigonish Review. Mail submissions to: The Antigonish ReviewContest, Box 5000, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada, B2G 2W5. For further information, email TAR@stfx.ca, Phone 902-867-3962 or visit our website at <www.antigonishreview.com>. ENTRIES WILL NOT BE RETURNED; only winners will be notified by September 1, 2014. List of winners will be available at our web site: http://www.antigonishreview.com.

 Entries  invited for the third annual Arizona Mystery Writers Story Contest. First prize $200. Open to mystery, suspense, and thriller. Length: 2500 words max. Open to everyone. Entry fee: $10. Deadline: June 1, 2014. See guidelines at:  arizonamysterywriters.com/?page_id=1449

 The Ontario Poetry Society Sparkle & Shine Poetry Anthology Chapbook Contest. Deadline June 30, 2014.  Various themes.  Fees: 1 poem for $2.00 or 3 poems for $5.00. See website: http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_sparkle&shine%202014.htm

 Aesthetica Creative Writing Competition 2014: Now Open For Entries! Now in its seventh year, the competition champions and nurtures creative talent from across the world in a celebration of outstanding poetry and short fiction. Creative Writing Competition 2014 Prizes:  £500 prize money for the Poetry Winner,  £500 prize money for the Short Fiction Winner, Publication in the Aesthetica Creative Writing Annual,  A selection of books from competition partner organisations. Writers are invited to submit their work into the categories of Short Fiction and Poetry. Fiction entries should be no more than 2,000 words each and poetry entries should be no more than 40 lines each. Both Short Fiction and Poetry entries should be written in English. Submissions previously published elsewhere are accepted. Visit http://www.aestheticamagazine.com/creativewriting to enter.

 The Ontario Poetry Society Food for Thought Contest. Deadline Sept. 30, 2014.  Food-themed poems.  Fees: 1 poem for $5.00 or 3 poems for $10.00.  See website for full details: http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Food%20for%20Thought.htm

 The Ontario Poetry Society Ultra Short Poem Competition. Deadline Oct. 30, 2014.  Poems no longer than 8 lines, 8 words per line. Fees: 1 poem for $2.00 or 3 for $5.00. http://www.theontariopoetrysociety.ca/contest_Ultra%20short%20poem14.htm
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