CHOO CHOO PRESS

Open Reading Period: September 15—October 15

We are seeking original manuscripts of poetry and nonfiction, as well as thoughtful pitches for artists' books for 2027 publication. Previously published poems, essays, and translations are welcome, so long as the manuscript as a whole is new. Before submitting, please familiarize yourself with our press to get a sense of whether your project is a fit.

No matter the genre, all manuscripts should read as a coherent, unified whole. Guidelines for each subject are listed below.

Nonfiction: We welcome thoughtful, lasting essays of up to 6,000 words, along with substantive pieces that are still in development. Please note: reviews, think pieces, academic texts, or anything overly tied to the news cycle will not be accepted.

Poetry: Submissions must include a minimum of 20 pages for consideration. Authors should be open to further rounds of edits and conversations regarding the order of poems. Manuscripts must be paginated and formatted in standard typeface.

Artists' books: Artists’ books must be textually based. Submissions should include a 300-500 word description of your project, along with a substantially drafted literary component. Projects that require materials too far beyond the realm of ink and paper, while thrilling, will be declined.

Please send all manuscripts, along with a 150 word bio, to choochoopress@gmail.com.

We aim to respond to every submission. Thank you for trusting us in advance—we look forward to reading your work.