The Iowa Review, a longstanding literary journal with a commitment to serious criticism, seeks reviews and interviews for its pages. This call is for book reviews of 1,500–3,000 words that discuss one or more books published within the last two years. The journal expresses a preference for titles from indie, nonprofit, university, or small press publishers, though reviews of major publishing house books are considered if they provide new and substantial insight. The review should not merely summarize or express like or dislike; it must offer critical, substantiated assessment, historical or cultural context, and interpretation where relevant. Interviews are also sought, though the excerpt is truncated; interested contributors should consult the full guidelines for interview length and format. The journal pays $0.08 per word for accepted work, a rate that acknowledges the labor of critical writing. There is no submission fee. The deadline for submissions is November 2, 2026. The Iowa Review has a history of publishing emerging and established voices alike, and its editorial vision values rigorous, thoughtful engagement with contemporary literature. The preference for independent and small press titles signals a curatorial interest in work that might otherwise receive less critical attention, though the journal remains open to major press books that are treated with depth and originality. For critics, this is an opportunity to contribute to a conversation that extends beyond the ephemeral. The Iowa Review expects reviews that are themselves essays—arguments that situate a book within larger literary, cultural, or historical frameworks. The journal's readership is discerning, and the editorial team seeks writing that is both accessible and intellectually ambitious. Interviews should similarly aim for substance, drawing out the interviewee's ideas and process rather than focusing on publicity. In all cases, the journal prioritizes clarity, originality, and critical integrity.