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Literary Journal

Malahat Review

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Journals & literary magazines2 open opportunities listedCanada

About the magazine

Founded in 1967 at the University of Victoria, The Malahat Review is one of Canada's most enduring and influential literary journals. Its founding ethos was to provide a dedicated space for serious poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction that might otherwise struggle to find a home in commercial publishing. Over five decades, it has maintained a commitment to literary excellence, publishing both emerging and established writers from Canada and abroad. The journal's core mission is to foster a vibrant literary culture through its quarterly issues, annual contests (such as the Open Season Awards), and its longstanding reputation for editorial care.

Editorial focus

The Malahat Review is among Canada’s leading literary journals. Published quarterly, it features contemporary works of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction by emerging and established writers from around the world. TMR also runs four contests per year, with prizes ranging from $1,250 to $2,000 CAD each. Contributors have gone on to be recognized by the National Magazine Awards, the Journey Prize, the Best Canadian anthologies, and more.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Jun 30
Reading feeYes
PaymentCash
Response timeGreater than 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Before submitting, carefully review the journal's current guidelines on its website, as reading periods and genre-specific requirements vary. The Malahat Review values work that demonstrates a strong command of craft, emotional resonance, and originality; it is not a venue for experimental or genre fiction. For contests like the Open Season Awards, adhere strictly to deadlines and formatting rules. Simultaneous submissions are typically accepted, but notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Expect a response time of several months; patience and professionalism are appreciated. Include a brief cover letter with your publication history, if any, but let the work speak for itself.

Canadian writers may submit between January 1 to June 30. No reading fee applied. International (including US) writers may submit between February 14 to 28. A small reading fee of $7 CAD applies. Literary magazines are time-intensive operations often run by or with the assistance of volunteers. Please help us all save time, energy, and eyesight by preparing submissions thoughtfully and carefully.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

2 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-11-02

Malahat Review — Open Season Awards

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