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boaeditions.org

Boa Editions, Ltd.

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Independent publishing2 open opportunities listed

About the press

Boa Editions is a distinguished independent literary publisher founded in 1973 by A. Poulin, Jr. With a commitment to poetry and literary translation, Boa has cultivated a reputation for publishing work that is both artistically ambitious and culturally significant. The press is known for its curated list, which includes the American Poets Continuum series, the New Poets of America series, and the Lannan Translations Selection. Its core mission is to discover and sustain poets of exceptional talent, often at pivotal moments in their careers, and to bring international voices to English-speaking audiences through translation.

Publishing focus

Boa Editions publishes within four distinct series: the American Poets Continuum Series (previously published poets); the New Poets of America series (first-book poets via The A. Poulin, Jr. Poetry Prize); the American Reader Series (literary short fiction). They also publish Blessing the Boats Selection (poetry collections by women of color) titles within their American Poets Continuum Series.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionShort Story CollectionsPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Lucille Clifton, Naomi Shihab Nye, Li-Young Lee, Stephen Dobyns, Janice N. Harrington, Brigit Pegeen Kelly, G.C. Waldrep, John Gallaher, Jillian Weise, Aracelis Girmay, Karen Volkman, Sean Thomas Dougherty, Craig Morgan Teicher, Michael Waters, Peter Macuck, Kathryn Nuernberger

Calls & opportunities

3 listed
ClosedDeadline · 2026-06-15

Blessing the Boats Selections

OpenDeadline · 2026-12-01

Boa Editions — A. Poulin, Jr. Poetry Prize 2026

OpenDeadline · 2026-12-01

Boa Editions — A. Poulin, Jr. Poetry Prize 2026

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodApr 1 to May 31
Reading feeNo
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should approach Boa Editions with the understanding that it is a highly selective press with a distinct aesthetic. Before submitting, thoroughly review the press's catalog to ensure your work aligns with its sensibilities. The A. Poulin, Jr. Poetry Prize is a significant annual contest for a first or second book; follow the guidelines precisely, as the competition is steep. For translations, the Lannan Translations Selection is a key opportunity. General submissions are typically closed except during specific reading periods, so monitor the website for announcements. A cover letter should be concise and professional, and the manuscript should be polished and complete. Patience is advised, as response times can be lengthy due to the volume of submissions.

We accept submissions at various times throughout the year. Consult our website ( www.boaeditions.org ) for up-to-date submission guidelines and reading periods. Familiarize yourself with our press and different publication series, so you are familiar with our aesthetic and can present yourself and your work favorably.

Read official guidelines