Top 10 Literary Magazine Reviews You Need to Read

Searching for literary magazine reviews to find the best reads? This guide covers ten standout literary magazines, detailing what makes each one worth your time.

Key Takeaways

• Atticus Review promotes inclusivity by encouraging submissions from both new and established writers, offering a diverse range of literary content.

• Passages North is renowned for its commitment to high-quality contemporary fiction and actively fosters new talent through contests and diverse submissions.

• Gigantic Sequins distinguishes itself with an eclectic mix of poetry, prose, and visual art, featuring contributions from both emerging and established writers.

Atticus Review

Atticus Review stands out as a daily online journal that never ceases to amaze with its variety of content, including fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and multimedia. Its unique approach to themed calls for submissions ensures that each issue is fresh and engaging, drawing from a plethora of diverse writing styles. Imagine the thrill of discovering new voices and perspectives every day—Atticus Review makes this a reality.

The magazine’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its submission policies. Encouraging both established and new writers, especially those with fewer than five publications, Atticus Review opens doors for fresh talent. This approach not only enriches the magazine’s content but also supports the literary community by providing a platform for emerging voices.

One of the standout features of Atticus Review is its acceptance of simultaneous submissions and previously published works. This flexibility broadens opportunities for contributors, making it easier for writers to share their stories without the constraints typically associated with literary publications. Atticus Review has become a go-to destination for those seeking innovative and thought-provoking content.

Anyone passionate about literary reviews, book reviews, and novel excerpts will find Atticus Review an indispensable resource. It’s like having a southern review, Paris review, and New England review all rolled into one, offering a rich and varied reading experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Passages North

Passages North has been a cornerstone of the literary world since its inception in 1979. Known for its dedication to contemporary fiction, this magazine has carved out a niche for itself by consistently publishing high-quality work. Its reputation is well-deserved, as it continues to push the boundaries of literary expression.

The magazine’s commitment to fostering new talent is evident through its various contests, which encourage submissions from writers of all backgrounds. This inclusive approach not only diversifies the content but also provides a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. Passages North offers a treasure trove of literary gems for those passionate about novel excerpts and southern reviews.

Passages North isn’t just about fiction. It also publishes hybrids, poetry, and creative nonfiction, ensuring that there is something for everyone. This diversity in content is one of the reasons why it is held in such high regard within the literary community. Each issue is a testament to the magazine’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

Readers looking to explore the best of contemporary fiction and beyond will find Passages North a must-read. Its rich history and unwavering dedication to quality make it a standout choice among literary magazines.

Gigantic Sequins

Gigantic Sequins is a bi-annual print journal that has made a name for itself with its eclectic mix of poetry, prose, flash fiction, and visual art. What sets this journal apart is its commitment to showcasing a variety of formats, making each issue a unique and engaging experience for readers.

The journal’s distinctive black and white aesthetic adds a layer of charm and sophistication, making it a visual treat as much as a literary one. Gigantic Sequins features contributions from both emerging talents and established writers, ensuring a rich and diverse array of voices. This blend of new and seasoned writers creates a dynamic and vibrant literary landscape.

Those who appreciate a touch of visual art alongside their literary fix will find Gigantic Sequins offers a perfect blend. Its commitment to diversity in both content and contributors makes it a standout choice for readers and writers alike.

Dogwood: A Journal of Poetry and Prose

Dogwood: A Journal of Poetry and Prose is a print journal that takes pride in publishing high-quality fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. What sets Dogwood apart is its blind review process for contest submissions, ensuring that each piece is judged solely on its merits. This commitment to fairness and quality makes Dogwood a trusted name among literary magazines.

Submissions for Dogwood’s annual contest are accepted from July 1 to September 5, with a special provision allowing incarcerated writers to submit their work without a fee. This inclusive policy highlights Dogwood’s dedication to providing opportunities for all writers, regardless of their circumstances. The journal also allows for simultaneous submissions, making it easier for writers to share their work.

Dogwood operates as a teaching journal, with students participating in the review process. This educational approach not only benefits the students but also enriches the journal’s content by bringing fresh perspectives to the table. The emphasis on quality work and diverse voices makes Dogwood a standout in the literary world.

Anyone interested in literary journals that publish fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction will find Dogwood a top contender. Its dedication to excellence and inclusivity ensures that each issue is a treasure trove of great literature.

Little Fiction and Big Truths

Little Fiction and Big Truths are two sides of the same coin, focusing on short stories and essays, respectively. What makes these online literary magazines stand out is their commitment to releasing content on the first Wednesday of every month, ensuring a steady stream of fresh and engaging material.

Both publications are known for their accessibility and free online availability, making them a favorite among readers who enjoy literary journals without the price tag. Recognized alongside the best literary magazines like McSweeney’s and The Rumpus, Little Fiction and Big Truths have carved out a niche for themselves in the literary world.

Emerging writers and fiction writers will find these magazines offer an excellent platform to showcase their creative writing. New and emerging writers will appreciate the variety of short stories and essays that ensure there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick read or something more substantial.

Little Fiction and Big Truths are perfect for readers who appreciate contemporary fiction and creative nonfiction. Their monthly releases and free accessibility make them a must-read for anyone who loves great literature.

Joyland: A Hub for Short Fiction

Joyland has established itself as a premier destination for short fiction, emphasizing geographical and stylistic diversity in its editorial choices. With a team of up to eight editors from different regions across North America, Joyland ensures a broad range of stories that reflect diverse experiences and perspectives.

The magazine publishes fiction and a variety of content, including short fiction, novel excerpts, and nonfiction, catering to a wide audience. This diversity in content, combined with the weekly publication schedule, ensures a constant flow of new and exciting material for readers.

Joyland’s commitment to quality and diversity makes it a standout among online literary magazines. Whether you’re a fan of short stories, novel excerpts, or creative nonfiction, Joyland offers a rich tapestry of creative works that will keep you coming back for more.

Those who appreciate literary magazines that publish fiction and poetry will find Joyland a must-read. Its fresh selection of creative works and diverse editorial team make it a vibrant and dynamic literary hub.

Bodega

Bodega is an online literary magazine that offers a monthly dose of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Designed to be read in a single sitting, each issue of Bodega provides a compact yet powerful literary experience. This format makes it perfect for readers who enjoy a quick but meaningful literary fix.

The magazine’s commitment to publishing a variety of content ensures that there is something for everyone in each issue. Whether you’re looking for a poem to ponder over or a short story to get lost in, Bodega delivers a satisfying literary experience every month.

Those who enjoy literary magazines that can be consumed in one sitting will find Bodega a fantastic choice. Its monthly issues provide a regular dose of high-quality literary content, making it a staple in the world of online literary magazines.

Memorious 21

Memorious 21 is a journal that places a strong emphasis on highlighting emerging writers and their work. This focus on new talent ensures that each issue is filled with fresh and innovative voices, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the future of literature.

The journal showcases an array of quality writing, prioritizing both poetry and fiction. This commitment to excellence is evident in every issue, making Memorious 21 a trusted name in the literary community. Additionally, the journal features distinctive art contests that encourage creative participation, adding another layer of engagement for readers and contributors alike.

Those who appreciate literary magazines that spotlight young people and emerging writers will find Memorious 21 an excellent choice. Its dedication to quality and innovation makes it a standout in the digital age.

The Atlas Review

The Atlas Review is a bi-annual literary magazine that publishes a variety of content, including short stories, poetry, essays, visual art, and interviews. Founded by Natalie Eilbert, the magazine has made a name for itself with its commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives.

The publication schedule of twice a year allows for a carefully curated selection of high-quality content, making each issue a significant literary publication event. The inclusion of visual art and interviews adds depth and richness to the magazine, creating a well-rounded literary experience.

Readers who enjoy a mix of literary forms will find The Atlas Review a must-read. Its commitment to diversity and quality makes it a standout choice among literary magazines.

2River View

2River View is a literary journal that is open for submissions year-round, allowing poets to submit their work at any time. This open submission policy ensures a steady stream of fresh and engaging poetry, making 2River View a vibrant and dynamic publication.

The journal prioritizes poetry that demonstrates a rich use of imagery and a nuanced perspective. This emphasis on quality and depth makes 2River View a trusted name among poetry lovers. The balance of clarity and ambiguity in the poems it publishes poetry adds another layer of intrigue and thoughtfulness.

Those who appreciate poetry with rich imagery and subtlety will find 2River View a must-read. Its year-round submission policy and commitment to quality make it a standout choice for poets and readers alike.

Summary

From Atticus Review to 2River View, these literary magazines offer a diverse and enriching reading experience. Each publication brings something unique to the table, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction, these magazines provide a platform for both emerging and established writers to shine.

In addition to these, readers may want to explore The Journal of the Westbrae Literary Group. With its mission to promote fresh, raw voices that challenge traditional literary norms, The Journal is an emerging publication worth keeping an eye on. It offers a platform for writers who express the complexities of contemporary life with authenticity and passion.

Exploring these literary magazines is like embarking on a literary adventure, discovering new voices and perspectives along the way. We encourage you to dive into these publications and immerse yourself in the world of great literature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit my work to multiple magazines simultaneously?

Yes, you can submit your work to multiple magazines simultaneously, but make sure to inform them promptly if your work is accepted by another publication.

Are there any fees for submitting my work to these magazines?

Yes, submission fees vary by magazine, with some, like Dogwood, waiving fees for specific groups such as incarcerated writers. It's important to check each magazine's submission guidelines for specific fee information.

How often are new issues published?

New issues are published on varying schedules; for instance, Bodega releases new issues monthly, while The Atlas Review publishes bi-annually.

Do these magazines publish previously published works?

Yes, some magazines do publish previously published works, but it's important to check their submission guidelines for details.

What types of content can I find in these magazines?

You can find a diverse range of content in these magazines, including poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, visual art, and interviews, each with its own unique focus and style.