Genre: Fiction

A prize of $1,500 and publication on the Ghost Story website is given biannually for a short story with a supernatural or magical realist theme. The editors will judge. Using only the online submission system, submit a story of 1,500 to 10,000 words with a $20 entry fee by April 30. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $10,000 is given in alternating years for a poetry collection or a book of fiction by an author whose work “demonstrates a commitment to social justice.” This year the award will be given to a work of fiction. The winner agrees to participate in a two-week reading tour at partnering educational institutions in Missouri. Publishers may submit a digital copy or five print copies (or unbound galleys) of a novel or short story collection published between January 1, 2025, and November 30, 2026, by April 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the website for the required entry form and complete guidelines.

A prize of €2,000 (approximately $2,334), publication in the Desperate Literature prize anthology, and a weeklong residency at the Civitella Ranieri Foundation’s castle in the Umbria region of Italy is given annually for a work of short fiction. Winners also receive a consultation with literary agent Charlotte Seymour (Johnson & Alcock Literary Agency), an editorial meeting with the Literary Consultancy, and the opportunity to give readings at the Desperate Literature bookshop in Madrid. Two runners-up receive €1,000 each (approximately $1,167). Claire-Louise Bennett, Ottessa Moshfegh, and Joanna Walsh will judge. All entries will be considered for publication in Bennington Review, Folly, Helter Skelter, Kill Your Darlings, London Magazine, Minor Literature[s], Souvenir Magazine, and Tenement and by Monitor Books. Submit a story of up to 2,000 words with a €20 (approximately $23) entry fee by April 19. To apply for a full or partial fee waiver, submit by April 1. Visit the website for complete guidelines.

A prize of $1,000, publication by New Michigan Press, and 25 author copies is given annually for a chapbook of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, or hybrid-genre work. Ander Monson will judge. Submit a manuscript of 18 to 44 pages with a $28 entry fee by April 30. All entries are considered for publication. Visit the website for complete guidelines.