⭐ What is Top-Shelf Literary Magazine?
Our inaugural September/October 2026 issue is available now. Published bimonthly.
Purchase it Here
Top-Shelf Literary Magazine — Submissions Open
We have rolling submissions all year long for our Off the Page publication.
We have open submissions for Issue 2 “Turning the Page.”
Submissions are open September 1 through October 15, 2026.
“Turning the Page” could mean starting a new chapter, the start of the new year, letting go of old hurts, moving forward, starting a new adventure. What does Turning the Page mean to you?
We are not looking for everything.
We are looking for work that stays.
The kind of writing that lingers—
that leaves something behind in the reader.
If your work carries weight, we want to read it.
Top-Shelf Literary Magazine is a curated space for powerful storytelling in all its forms. We believe a story can be told not just through words on a page, but through a single photograph, a brushstroke, a whispered poem, or a moment captured in time.
Our mission is to showcase creative work that moves people — whether it’s through fiction, poetry, essays, artwork, or photography. Top-Shelf is where imagination, emotion, and excellence meet.
⭐ What We Stand For
We believe literature isn’t just something to read — it’s something to feel, question, share, and carry with you. At Top-Shelf, we champion:
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Authentic voices – Whether you’re a published author or a student with a passion for words, your voice matters.
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Creative freedom – We welcome a range of genres, styles, and perspectives. Experimental? Dark? Uplifting? All are welcome.
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Literary community – We want to build a space where writers, artists, and readers connect, grow, and inspire each other.
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Top-Shelf Quality – We handpick work that moves us. Every issue features pieces we believe are truly “top shelf worthy.”
We aim to celebrate art that is thoughtful, original, and respectful of all readers.
🗂️ What You’ll Find in Each Issue.
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Original poetry, flash fiction, and short stories
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Author spotlights and interviews
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Stunning artwork and photography
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Creative writing prompts
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Themed submission calls and reader contests
🛋️ Why Top-Shelf?
The name Top-Shelf comes from our personal love of books — the ones we display on the top shelf are the ones we treasure most. Our goal is to curate a digital “top shelf” of powerful, unforgettable work that deserves to be read, shared, and remembered.
✨ Submission Guidelines
We welcome submissions that reflect the heart of storytelling in all its forms — written, visual, or experimental. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a passionate newcomer, we’re honored to consider your work.
What We Accept:
Short Stories (up to 3,000 words)
Poetry (up to 5 poems per submission)
Flash Fiction (under 1,000 words)
Creative Nonfiction (memoir, essay, personal reflection – up to 2,000 words)
Photography (up to 5 high-resolution images)
Artwork (original illustrations, digital or traditional – JPEG or PNG format)
Themes & Style:
Open themes — we love stories that are heartfelt, thought-provoking, mysterious, lyrical, or unexpected.
We look for voice, creativity, originality, and emotional depth.
Visual pieces should tell a story or evoke strong emotion.
Audience:
Submissions should be suitable for a general audience (13+). Please refrain from:
Graphic violence
Irreverent use of God’s name
Explicit sexual content
- Hateful or discriminatory themes
- Excessive profanity
Note: We’re not looking for perfection — we’re looking for pieces with soul, spark, and a reason to be told.
How to Submit:
Email submissions to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Top-Shelf Submission – [Your Name]
Attach documents as .doc, .docx, or PDF files. Images as .jpg or .png.
Include a short third-person bio (50–100 words) and your Instagram handle (optional).
Response Time:
We aim to respond to submissions within 2–6 weeks. If your work is accepted, we will contact you with next steps and publication details.
Simultaneous Submissions:
Simultaneous submissions are allowed, but please notify us immediately if your work is accepted elsewhere.Rights:
Authors and artists retain copyright to their work. If accepted, Top-Shelf Literary Magazine requests first electronic publication rights and the nonexclusive right to archive and promote the work as part of the magazine.