Blair / Carolina Wren Press is an independent publisher based in Durham, North Carolina, with a history rooted in regional literary activism. Founded in 1976 as Carolina Wren Press, it began as a feminist collective dedicated to publishing voices marginalized by mainstream presses. In 2018, it merged with Blair, a publisher known for nonfiction on the American South, to form Blair / Carolina Wren Press. The press maintains a dual commitment: Carolina Wren serves as an imprint for literary fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, while Blair focuses on narrative nonfiction, particularly Southern history, culture, and social justice. Together, they uphold a mission to amplify diverse perspectives and foster a more inclusive literary landscape.
Publishing focus
Blair is a nonprofit independent book publisher. They strive to publish quality writing, focusing on authors and subjects historically neglected by mainstream publishers, including women, people of color, authors with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ authors. True to their roots in North Carolina, they look to the many voices of the South—and beyond—as sources of work and inspiration.
PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionShort Story CollectionsEssay CollectionsNovelMemoirPoetry Collections
Selected authors Evie Shockley, Jeanne Leiby, Jaki Shelton Green, George Elliott Clarke
Calls & opportunities
3 listed
Manuscript submissions
Reading periodNov 15 to Jan 15
Reading feeNo
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes
Writers should review the separate submission guidelines for Blair and Carolina Wren Press on the website. Carolina Wren typically accepts literary fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction, while Blair seeks nonfiction with a strong Southern angle. Submissions are generally open during specific reading periods, so check for announcements. Include a compelling query letter, a synopsis, and sample chapters or poems as specified. Given the press's focus on marginalized voices, highlight how your work contributes to diverse narratives. Patience is advised, as response times can be lengthy due to limited staff.
Please read our mission statement and submissions page on our website. We do not accept genre fiction, religious writing, or children’s stories. We do not accept unsolicited fiction and poetry outside of our contests.