One Story sends their subscribers a new short story in the mail every three weeks. They publish literary fiction from emerging and established writers. Each issue features just one story. It is a unique format that gives just one author center stage.

They are now open for their winter/spring submission period, which runs until May 31st.

They get over 100 submissions a week, which means it is a bit competitive to be accepted by them. Their stories are between 3,000 and 8,000 words. They want “stories that leave readers feeling satisfied and are strong enough to stand alone.”

According to their website:

“One Story is offering $500 and 25 contributors copies for First Serial North American rights. All rights will revert to the author upon publication.”

They take up to 12 weeks to respond to your submission.

They have a circulation of 15,000 readers. Over half their stories have ended up winning awards such as the Pushcart award.

They support their authors, and provide mentorship. They host a Summer Writers’ Workshop. They’re also the publishers of One Teen Story, which exclusively publishes writing by teen authors.

To learn more, be sure to read their full submission guidelines.