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Anvil Press Publishers, Inc.

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Independent publishing0 open opportunities listed

About the press

Anvil Press is an independent literary publisher based in Vancouver, British Columbia, founded in 1988. From its inception, Anvil has been dedicated to publishing books that challenge conventional narratives and give voice to underrepresented perspectives, with a particular emphasis on poetry, fiction, and drama. The press is perhaps best known for its annual 3-Day Novel Contest, a legendary event that invites writers to produce a complete novel in just 72 hours, embodying Anvil's commitment to raw creativity and literary risk-taking. Over the decades, Anvil has built a reputation for nurturing experimental and socially engaged writing, often championing works that might be overlooked by larger commercial houses. Its catalogue reflects a curatorial ethos that values authenticity, innovation, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Publishing focus

Anvil Press is a Vancouver literary press founded in 1991. Now in its twenty-fifth year of publishing, Anvil has firmly established itself as a publisher of progressive, contemporary Canadian literature with a distinctly urban twist. An award-winning publisher of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, Anvil has become known for its quality books and unconventional literary work. National—and local—in its vision, Anvil remains committed to its East Vancouver roots, and doesn’t shy away from work from the wrong side of the tracks. Canadian authors only.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Selected authors
Annette Lapointe, Grant Buday, Melissa Bull, Jim Christy, Elee Kraljii Gardiner, Nathaniel G. Moore, Elaine McCluskey, Stuart Ross, Kevin Spenst

Calls & opportunities

2 listed
ClosedDeadline · 2026-09-05

Anvil Press — 2026 3-Day Novel Registration

ClosedDeadline · 2026-09-05

Anvil Press — 2026 3-Day Novel Registration

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJun 1 to Jun 30
Reading feeNo
Response timeGreater than 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers interested in Anvil Press should first familiarize themselves with its diverse catalogue to understand the aesthetic and thematic range it champions. While the press accepts general submissions, the 3-Day Novel Contest is a unique entry point that requires stamina, spontaneity, and a willingness to embrace imperfection. For traditional submissions, prepare a polished manuscript that demonstrates originality and a distinctive voice, and be patient with response times, as Anvil is a small, dedicated team. Always check the website for specific guidelines and reading periods before submitting.

Before submitting a manuscript or proposal, we strongly suggest that authors familiarize themselves with the kinds of work we publish. Consult our website for books and guidelines.

Read official guidelines