“CRAFT is an online literary journal which explores the art of fiction. Our focus is on the craft of writing and how those elements make a good story great. We are interested in fiction that shines because of its exploration of craft…. CRAFT is open year-round and is available to all writers. We currently feature two separate submission categories, based on the length of the work submitted: Flash Fiction, for work under 1,000 words; and Short Fiction, for work under 7,000 words.” from the CRAFT website
Ever on the lookout for promising publication avenues, I was excited when news of CRAFT came my way. This online outlet features both new and republished fiction, along with critical pieces on craft. And, in a special twist, each work it publishes includes an author’s note focusing on use of craft in their story — point of view, the use of time, and other specific elements are explored. A novel idea!
CRAFT has just announced its CRAFT Short Fiction Prize: “Send us your best fiction. We are interested in stories that explore craft. We want stories that linger with us; stories that have an emotional core; and stories that feel fresh and new.” The deadline: April 30.
Submissions will be judged by Jim Shepard, the author of seven novels and short stories, several of which have been chosen for the Best American Short Stories, two for the PEN/O. Henry Prize Stories, and one for a Pushcart Prize. He teaches at Williams College.
Three stories Shepard selects will be published in CRAFT, along with an introduction from Shepard and a craft essay by each author. The author of the prize-winning story will receive $2000; two runners-up will receive $500 and $300. Submission guidelines:
Fiction, 6,000 word count, maximum
Multiple submissions allowed
Previously unpublished work only
$20 reading fee per story
Simultaneous submissions allowed
All entries will also be considered for publication in CRAFT
If you have one or more short stories that meet the guidelines, why not step them out?
For more information, visit: https://www.craftliterary.com/craft-short-fiction-prize/ — and write on!
