⭐ What is Top-Shelf Literary Magazine?
Top-Shelf Literary Magazine — Submissions Open
We are curating our debut issue.
Currently accepting submissions for our upcoming issue.
We are not looking for everything.
We are looking for work that stays.
Now Open: Cover Art Submissions for Our Inaugural Fall 2026 Issue. Calling visual artists — we are seeking original artwork for our debut cover. The winning artist receives a feature in the magazine, a website spotlight, and a $50 honorarium. Submissions open through June 30, 2026. View competition details and how to submit →
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
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 2–4 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.