Ohio University Press — Hollis Summers Poetry Prize 2027

Overview
The Hollis Summers Poetry Prize, administered by Ohio University Press, is an annual award for a poetry manuscript. The press, a venerable academic publisher with a long-standing commitment to poetry, seeks full-length collections of 60 to 95 pages. The prize is open to poets at any stage, though it is particularly suited to those who have not yet published a book. The winning manuscript will be published by Ohio University Press in April 2028, ensuring a wide distribution through academic and trade channels. The contest operates on a two-tier judging process: the General Editor selects finalists, and a Final Judge—typically an established poet—chooses the winner. This structure provides both editorial expertise and an external aesthetic perspective. The winner receives a cash prize (amount not specified in the provided data) and book publication. The press does not offer individual criticism, a common practice among competitive prizes, underscoring the volume of submissions and the need for manuscripts that are polished and ready for publication. Submissions are accepted from April 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, with a $30 fee per entry. The press requires manuscripts in final form; revisions to acknowledgments will not be considered during the contest. Multiple submissions to other publishers are permitted, provided the press is informed if the manuscript is accepted elsewhere. This policy reflects a professional courtesy and an understanding of the competitive landscape. The prize is not open to translations; individual collections must be the work of a single author.