Responding to Anthology Admission Calls by KM Rockwood

I like short stories, both reading and writing them. Submission calls to anthologies provide a structure and a challenge.

Many calls come from dedicated groups or individual editors. They offer writers a unique opportunity to showcase their work alongside other talented authors. Usually centered around a particular genre and concept, anthologies aim to bring together a diverse range of voices and stories.

The income from sales of theses anthologies will seldom be much in excess of the production costs, so they aren’t for the authors who want to be paid for their work. A few pay token amounts. Others announce beforehand that any money in excess of the expenses will be donated. They are a labor of love.

Anthologies typically release submission calls detailing their themes, word count requirements, and deadlines. While some may focus on broad genres—such as horror or romance—most have highly specific prompts, like geographic location or subject. Calls for stories based on the work of particular musical performers or other popular culture have been a trend lately. Editors often outline content

preferences, specifying tone, narrative style, and originality.

The submission call for the anthology for the 2026 Bouchercon, to be held in Calgary, Canada, is currently open and asks for stories with the theme of “Cross-Border.” The theme for the next Malice Domestic Anthology is rumored to be “Seniors,” although the official call has not been posted yet.

Several recent anthologies have been centered on the work of performing artist. Others ask for stories set in a specific geographical location.

When a story is accepted, the author must be prepared to work with an editor to polish it to as close to perfection as possible.

In some cases, the selection of stories to be included is made by an outside panel with a deliberate attempt to conceal the authors’ identity until the final selection is made. Other times, the editor is the person who both makes the selections and oversees the process of preparing the work for publication. In the later case, since the editor has chosen works he or she feels fit the intent, edits are usually minor. Sometimes, in the former case, the editor, who obviously has to work with the material selected by the panel of judges, can result in a mismatch between editor’s concept and writer’s concept. They work together to bring the piece to acceptable condition.

Some anthologies solicit some stories, usually from well-known authors, in addition to issuing submission calls.

And, of course, if a story is rejected (which happens more often than not) the author has a finished piece ready to be submitted when an appropriate opportunity surfaces.

Anthology submission calls are excellent avenues for writers to gain recognition and expand their audience. With careful attention

to guidelines and a strong story, writers can find their place in compelling collections that leave a lasting impact.

I’m currently toying with a submission to a second volume of “Santa Rage,” although I’m not sure I have the heart for it. I did have an entry in the first one, and it did contain my personal requirements for Christmas stories, that they end on a hopeful note. I have to see where this story takes me.

If you’re up for a fun challenge, responding to these submission calls may be just what you’re looking for.