Nonfiction Guidelines

Nonfiction Guidelines

             The focus of Calliope is on writing. Nonfiction should address information that writers would find helpful or instructional in honing their craft. Articles on subjects other than writing are seldom considered. Brief pieces that fit our ongoing columns are the easiest to place. The columns include:

  ·         Markets - a listing of markets that encourage new writers.
  ·         Book Reviews - reviews of writing-related books and magazines.
  ·         Conference Tidbits - review of conference or workshop with lessons learned.
  ·         Bulletin Board - listing of recent publication credits. We’d like to hear where our subscribers are
            getting published and any experiences related to publication (timely acceptance, editorial feedback, etc.)

           Longer articles are also in demand. Check recent issues to see what subscribers are looking for. Generally, any information on getting published is in demand. Personal experiences are high on the list of good article material.How to Submit Your Nonfiction            Following professional conventions is always a plus. Here are a few that are encouraged:

           1.   Manuscripts must be typed, double-spaced, on 8-1/2 x11” paper, one side only. (If you’re using a
                 computer, sending a disk is strongly recommended, but be sure to also send a hard copy just in
                 case your file cannot be retrieved. Your disk will be returned in your SASE.)
          2.   Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, and word count on the top of the first page.
                 All other pages should have a page number and either your name or a part of the title in the upper
                 corner of each page (you pick--right or left. I don’t care, just be consistent.) Include a cover letter
                 telling me something about yourself, your publication credits, your writing interests, etc. Publication
                 credits make absolutely no difference to your chances of getting published. In fact, if you have a
                 regular column in the Wall Street Journal, I’m going to be awfully curious about why you’re even
                 submitting an article to Calliope. A short author’s blurb will appear at the end of each piece.
          3.   Always include a SASE (that’s an envelope large enough for whatever you want back, with the
                 appropriate postage already stuck to it or coupons for returns outside the U.S.) If you don’t want
                 your manuscript back, say so on the top of the first page. “Disposable” or some other phrase will
                 work. Even if you don’t want your ms. back, send SASE just in case there’s a rejection note to mail
                 your way. All the editors at Calliope offer constructive criticism or at least a reason if a piece is
                 rejected. No SASE, no feedback.
          4.   Allow about four weeks for a response. Most of the time it will get to you sooner, but the editors
                  are unpaid volunteers. Send Nonfiction, Letters, Fillers, and Money to: Cynthia Sabelhaus
P.O. Box 23308
Tucson, AZ 85734-3308
cynthia@theriver.com