bramble Gold Star Program Gold Star

bramble press showcases memorable poetry and artwork by freeworld and incarcerated poets. We want poetry and art that lingers in readers' hearts & minds. Generally, we like poems that are accessible (rather than abstract) and that focus on concrete details, images, or a story.

We read in July and December for our lit mag; we read in September for chapbooks and microchaps.

For more info, visit our site, brambleonline.com.

Quota: This project has established a quota. Submissions will close when it is reached.

Chapbooks & Collections Fee: usd $15.00 Open

Closes on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 11:59 PM EDT (in 5 days, 6 hours).

bramble's motto is "poetry that sticks" -- we want memorable poetry.

We take submissions in September for chapbooks and collections of 15 to 50 pages of poetry. This page count does not include front or back matter (acknowledgments, title page, table of contents, etc.) but your document can contain them. Please do not include identifying information.

We recommend using 12 point Times New Roman font. Start each poem on a new page. Single-space your poems unless double spacing is intentional.

If applicable, include an acknowledgments page to indicate which poems are published elsewhere. Please aim for at least half of the poems to be previously unpublished.

If you have used AI to create, edit, or otherwise produce your poems, mention this at the beginning of your manuscript. We want to know how you used it and to what purpose; this does not automatically disqualify you from publication.

We aim to respond within 4 months. We charge $15 for submissions, which are used for operation costs (ISBNs, website and URL fees, printing, etc.) and communication with incarcerated poets.

If your manuscript is accepted elsewhere, please withdraw your submission from us ASAP. If we select your manuscript for publication, please withdraw it ASAP from other publishers and contests.

We may make minor edits or suggestions to the selected manuscripts while maintaining the poet’s original voice. Selected poets are expected to negotiate a contract with us and to read the final draft of the manuscript before the book goes to print.

Published poets will receive author copies and a percentage of royalties from net receipts. We also expect published poets to conduct at least two readings and to help with promotion of the book. We will promote the book via our website and our network.

Submit your manuscript to Duosuma or contact us for alternate submission methods.

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