Call for short story submissions: MENAGERIE anthology
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
It's time to unlock the cage.
We’re opening submissions for our next anthology. This one is full of teeth, wings, scales and secrets. Welcome to MENAGERIE.
What we're looking for
Across cultures and centuries, mythological creatures have stalked forests, haunted oceans, guarded treasure, and existed at the edges of human imagination. Dragons, selkies, chimeras, river spirits, thunderbirds, gorgons, tricksters, beasts no one has named yet — they endure because they carry meaning.
For MENAGERIE, we want stories centred on mythological creatures. You may draw from established folklore, reimagine lesser-known beings, or invent your own creature rooted in myth. The key requirement is that the creature matters. It must shape the emotional core, stakes, and transformation within the story.
We’re not looking for ornamental monsters. The creature should function as symbol, catalyst, mirror, threat, guardian, or guide. It should feel necessary.
Any genre is welcome provided the mythic dimension is essential to the narrative. Stories may be intimate or epic in scope. They may be tender, unsettling, strange, or ferocious. We are especially drawn to strong character arcs, emotional clarity, and distinctive voices.
Surprise us. Unearth something ancient. Show us a creature we have never quite seen before.
Submission guidelines
Length: 5 000–10 000 words
Language: English
Theme: Mythological creatures (central to the story)
Publication status: Unpublished work only (no reprints, blogs, or self-published pieces)
It’s time to unlock the cage.
We’re opening submissions for our next anthology, and this one is full of teeth, wings, scales, and secrets.Welcome to MENAGERIE.
What we’re looking for
Across cultures and centuries, mythological creatures have stalked forests, haunted oceans, guarded treasure, and existed at the edges of human imagination. Dragons, selkies, chimeras, river spirits, thunderbirds, gorgons, tricksters, beasts no one has named yet — they endure because they carry meaning.
For MENAGERIE, we want stories centred on mythological creatures. You may draw from established folklore, reimagine lesser-known beings, or invent your own creature rooted in myth. The key requirement is that the creature matters. It must shape the emotional core, stakes, and transformation within the story.
We’re not looking for ornamental monsters. The creature should function as symbol, catalyst, mirror, threat, guardian, or guide. It should feel necessary.
Any genre is welcome provided the mythic dimension is essential to the narrative. Stories may be intimate or epic in scope. They may be tender, unsettling, strange, or ferocious. We are especially drawn to strong character arcs, emotional clarity, and distinctive voices.
Surprise us. Unearth something ancient. Show us a creature we have never quite seen before.
Submission guidelines
Length: 5 000–10 000 words
Language: English
Theme: Mythological creatures (central to the story)
Publication status: Unpublished work only (no reprints, blogs, or self-published pieces)
How many stories will be included, and will I get paid?
We will select eight stories for inclusion.Each chosen author will sign a standard publishing agreement and receive royalties from every print and ebook sale.
Who can submit and where will it be published?
Anyone from anywhere in the world may submit.The anthology will appear in print in and ebook worldwide.
How do I submit?
We only consider submissions made through this online form. No emailed or physical submissions will be considered.
Deadlines and timeline
Submissions close: 30 June 2026 at midnight (GMT +2)Selected stories announced: 31 August 2026Publication: March 2027
Open the gates. Let the wild things in.