Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed
About the magazine
Founded in 1980 by graduate students at the University of Arizona, Sonora Review is one of the oldest student-run literary journals in the United States. Operating out of the Department of English, it has maintained a distinct identity rooted in the desert Southwest while publishing writers from across the country and beyond. The journal is committed to showcasing emerging and established voices in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction, with a particular openness to formal experimentation and narratives that engage with place, identity, and the complexities of the contemporary moment. Its longevity is a testament to the sustained labor of generations of student editors who balance academic rigor with a genuine passion for the literary arts. Over four decades, Sonora Review has evolved from a regional publication to a nationally recognized journal, yet it retains an intimate, handcrafted feel. Each issue is curated with care, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of its current editorial board. The journal does not adhere to a single school or trend; instead, it seeks writing that is urgent, surprising, and deeply felt. This ethos has attracted a loyal readership and a community of writers who value the journal's independence and its commitment to literary discovery.
Editorial focus
Since the magazine’s inception in 1980, editors and readers have worked to keep alive the journal’s tradition of publishing both established and emerging writers who uphold the highest standards of innovative prose and poetry.
PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation
Submitting your work
Reading periodSep 1 to Apr 1
Reading feeYes
PaymentContributor copies only
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes
Sonora Review accepts submissions of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction during designated reading periods, typically announced on its website and social media. Writers should familiarize themselves with recent issues to understand the journal's aesthetic range, which favors work that is emotionally resonant and formally adventurous. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify the editors promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter with your contact information and publication history, if any. The journal values concise, well-crafted pieces; there are no strict length limits, but shorter works often have a better chance in the competitive review process. Response times vary, so patience is advised. Above all, trust the editors' commitment to finding and nurturing exceptional writing.