1. Should I always include a cover letter?
Yes. Talking to other editors, one of the top ten complaints
they had was no cover letter. We do not know you, but with a cover
letter that includes a brief bio, it gives us a better idea of who
you are and what kind of writer you are.
2. How long should a cover letter be?
No more than 3 paragraphs. The 1st paragraph should introduce your story, the 2nd paragraph should introduce you--tell the editor a little about you or use your writing credits if you have any. (Never tell an editor you are a new writer). The 3rd paragraph should simply say, "thank you for your time."
3. Are reprints okay?
Yes, but the author must provide the name of the magazine
that first published it and the date when it was published.
4. If you acquire First North American rights only, does this
mean I can publish the same story elsewhere?
Absolutely. Once we've printed the story or poem, rights revert
back to the author and you are free to submit it elsewhere. You
should stipulate where and when it was first published. This is
a must where all magazines are concerned. Make sure they accept
reprinted material.
5. Should I enclose a SASE with each correspondence?
Yes. If an editor receives a manuscript without one, 9 out of
10 will not respond, no matter how great our story may be. All magazines
require an SASE.
6. Will you accept single spaced or handwritten material? I do
not have access to either typewriter or computer.
No. We do not accept either. Single spaced material is hard
to read and the only exception is poetry. And unless your handwriting
resembles typewritten words, is sometimes impossible to read. Your
local library should allow you access to a computer or check with
your nearest school system.
7. Do you pay in contributor's copies?
Not at this time. Publication prices are extreme and to bring
you the best writing possible, we keep expenses to a minimum. Hopefully,
in the future this will change. Remember, though, whether or not
you are paid, when published, you now have a writing credit, which
will work in your favor.
