The Linda Bruckheimer Series in Kentucky Literature presents an opportunity to focus on the fine literature the state of Kentucky has produced, bringing it to the nation’s attention. Sarabande will publish one book annually of short stories, poetry, creative nonfiction, a novella(s), or short novel.

Eligibility

Contest is open to any writer of English

• who is a native of Kentucky, or
• who has lived in Kentucky for at least five years, or
• whose manuscript is set in Kentucky, or
• whose manuscript is about Kentucky.

In addition, writer must be willing and able to travel to or within Kentucky for readings and public events. Employees and board members of Sarabande Books, Inc. are not eligible.

Content Requirements

Submissions may include

• a collection of poetry between 48 and 100 manuscript pages, or
• a collection of short stories no more than 250 manuscript pages, or
• one or more novellas no more than 250 manuscript pages, or
• a short novel no more than 250 manuscript pages, or
• a collection of essays or creative nonfiction no more than 250 manuscript pages.

Works that have previously appeared in magazines or in anthologies may be included. Translations and previously self-published collections are not eligible. We also do not consider history, scholarly works, children’s literature, plays, genre literature such as romances, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, or crime thrillers. Nor do we accept single stories, or poems, or novellas under 150 manuscript pages.

Manuscript Format

• Please submit one copy of the manuscript, with the author’s name, address, phone number, and e-mail address on the cover page.
• Type the manuscript on standard white paper, one side of the page only.
• Paginate consecutively with a table of contents and acknowledgements.
• Bind the manuscript with a spring clip or place it in a plain file folder.
• Include a bio that specifies your satisfaction of the eligibility requirements.

Submission of more than one manuscript is permissible. Simultaneous submissions to other publishers are permitted, but Sarabande Books must be notified immediately if manuscript is accepted elsewhere.

Submission Information

• Manuscripts must be postmarked during the month of July. No exceptions.
• Include a self-addressed stamped postcard for notification that manuscript has been received.
• Include a self-addressed, stamped, regular business-sized envelope for editor’s decision.
• Please send your manuscript in a plain or padded envelope. No boxes please.
• No Federal Express, Overnight Mail, or UPS.

Please retain a copy of your manuscript. We cannot return manuscripts. Sarabande reserves the right not to publish in the series if no suitable manuscript is found.

Please send entries to:

The Linda Bruckheimer Series in Kentucky Literature
Sarabande Books, Inc.
2234 Dundee Road, Suite 200
Louisville KY 40205