Writer's Guidelines
Click here to download these CWJ Writer's Guidelines
in PDF file for off-line reference.
Canadian Writer's Journal is a digest-size magazine for writers emphasizing short "how-to" articles which convey easily understood information useful to both apprentice and professional writers. General policy and postal subsidies require that the magazine must carry a substantial Canadian content. We try for about 90% Canadian content, but prefer good material over country of origin, or how well you're known.
Writers may query, but unsolicited manuscripts are welcome. (For submission format click here. All submissions are considered, and unused material is returned if a suitable self-addressed, stamped envelope (S.A.S.E.) is provided. When submitting from outside Canada, please note that International Reply Coupons (IRCs) are necessary. We cannot return your reponse from Canada if it has stamps from your country on it. We try to answer promptly; please allow 12 weeks for a response before contacting us again. We reserve the right to edit all material prior to publication.
Email queries and submissions by email are most welcome. Content and writing style will be primary considerations, but between two similar pieces of quality writing on the same topic, preference will be given to the article that can be submitted electronically. S.A.S.E. and paper copy by mail are still necessary for cross-checking and payment, but you can wait and send them only if there's an acceptance. It saves postage.
Email submissions should have the following format: click here to see sample
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As of January 1, 2002, payment increased from the rate of approximately $5 per printed CWJ page (approximately 450 words) to $7.50, plus one complimentary copy of that issue. A $2 premium will be paid for electronic submissions by email. Payment made on publication, normally 2-9 months after acceptance. Please advise if you can accept payments throughPayPal and at what address. Rates and payment schedules are always under review. Canadian Writer's Journal buys one-time rights, preferably first-time rights, and reserves the right to edit all material prior to publication.
Preferred article length is from 400 words to 2,000 words depending on subject matter. Tight, clear writing is essential. Shorter is better. Any subject related to writing, from the generation of ideas to marketing and publishing, may be covered. Writers should be specific and precise. Avoid overworked subjects such as overcoming writer's block, handling rejection, or finding time to write. Material based on the author's personal experience and achievements will usually be given preference. Be prepared to verify sources and quotations. We reserve the right to edit all material prior to publication.
Opinion pieces on issues affecting writers and publishers are sought. Humorous and seasonal items are joyfully accepted.
Three to four book reviews are used in most issues. Books about writing are favoured, but other books may be reviewed to exemplify a genre or to illustrate techniques useful to other writers. Reviews of books published in Canada are given preference. Length 250-500 words. If you have a book you'd like reviewed, send it to us.
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Review Format Top of the review article should contain:
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Fiction is published only through our semi-annual short fiction contests. Deadlines are September 30th and March 31st. S.A.S.E. to send for short fiction contest rules or print out text from the link here.
Poetry must be unpublished elsewhere. Payment between $2.00-$5.00 for each published poem, depending on length. Self-addressed, stamped envelope (S.A.S.E.) required for response and payment. Runs 4-6 pages of poetry per issue. Query by email first to save postage. (Send S.A.S.E and hard copy only after acceptance. Please put the word Query in the subject line.)
Fillers, line art, cartoons and anecdotes directly related to inspiration or the writing experience should be submitted for consideration to editor@cwj.ca but a paper manuscript and a #10 size S.A.S.E. may be required for response and cross-referencing after acceptance.
Sample copies: $6.50 plus $2.50 (postage, handling and GST) = $9.00 CDN approximately, shipping adjusted for destination. Order Sample Copy Here by PayPal®: | ||||||
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Subscription rates: Subscription Order Form
1 Year (6 issues) is $35 (+ GST in Canada = $36.75)
2 Years (12 issues) are $67.50 (+ $3.38 GST in Canada = $70.88)
Payment rates for articles and poems have also increased.
Email submissions to: editor@cwj.ca
