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Clare Songbirds Publishing House

Open now
Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Clare Songbirds Publishing House is an independent literary press based in Buffalo, New York, founded in 2017 by poet and editor Jennifer L. Tompkins. The press emerged from a desire to create a nurturing yet rigorous space for poetry and short fiction that might be overlooked by larger commercial houses. Its mission is to publish work that sings—work that is emotionally resonant, formally attentive, and deeply human. Clare Songbirds prioritizes emerging and underrepresented voices, often pairing them with established writers in themed anthologies and single-author collections. The press operates with a small, hands-on editorial team, emphasizing close collaboration between authors and editors throughout the publishing process.

Publishing focus

Clare Songbirds Publishing House was established to provide a print forum for the creation of limited edition, fine art from poets and writers, both established and emerging.

PoetryChapbookPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Rachel Ikins, Christopher Hopkins, Mick Yates, Michael Sharp, Ron Carey

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJan 15 to Feb 28
Reading feeYes
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should review the press's current calls for submissions on its website, as guidelines vary by project. Generally, Clare Songbirds seeks poetry (up to 5 poems) and short fiction (up to 3,000 words) that demonstrates strong imagery, emotional depth, and a distinctive voice. Simultaneous submissions are accepted with prompt notification of acceptance elsewhere. The press values cover letters that articulate a genuine connection to its aesthetic and mission. Response times can range from 2 to 6 months; query only after 6 months. There are no reading fees for most calls, though occasional themed anthologies may charge a small fee to cover production costs.

We strive to reignite and continue a tradition of quality, accessible literary arts to the national and international community of writers, and readers. We support our literary artists with high quality services and ongoing support. Manuscripts are carefully chosen for their ability to propel the expansion of art and ideas in literary form.

Read official guidelines