The Ones Behind the Bookshelves: Accepting Submissions (previously published works welcome)

Submission window is open for the Winter/Spring 2027 Literary Series (begins in Feb).

* Organization: The Ones Behind the Bookshelves * Deadline: November 14 * Entry fee: No fee * Prize/s: No monetary pay. Accepted writers will be featured for a week and have the option to join the Co-op Shelf to promote their book. * Link to submission page/official rules: https://theonesbehindthebookshelves.substack.com/p/call-for-submission * Other information: We’re accepting flash fiction, non-creative flash fiction, and poetry. Previously published works are welcome!

For the series, a writer’s work will be featured for a week. The season runs weekly and may be anywhere from 2 to 13 weeks, depending on the quality and volume of submissions received. Submission may close earlier if cap reached.

We strongly encourage writers of all backgrounds to submit, and we particularly want to amplify voices that have been historically underrepresented in literary journals—including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and women writers.

Theme: “The Extraordinary”

Finding the extraordinary in everyday moments — a strange grocery store visit, a surreal experience during a commute, an awkward dinner meal conversation. [This can be a slice of life, or even a story with a touch of magical realism.]

If accepted, you’ll be asked to write a Contributor’s Note (required) about your poem or story— a few sentences or paragraphs, telling readers the story, philosophy, or inspiration behind the work. We also offer accepted contributors the option to join our Co-op Shelf (more details upon acceptance).