Skip to content
Back to independent presses

Harvard Square Editions

Open now
Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Harvard Square Editions is an independent press founded in 2011 by a group of Harvard University alumni. Its core mission is to publish literary fiction and creative nonfiction that might be overlooked by commercial publishers, with a particular emphasis on works that engage with social, political, and environmental themes. The press operates on a cooperative model, often involving authors in the editorial and promotional process, and maintains a lean, selective list. While not formally affiliated with Harvard University, it draws on the intellectual rigor and literary tradition associated with the Harvard Square area, positioning itself as a home for thoughtful, risk-taking writing that prioritizes substance over market trends.

Publishing focus

Harvard Square Editions (H2) is looking for nonfiction and fiction (women's, men's, other, uncomfortable truths, red pill, diverse) of social/environmental value. Its mission is to publish books―including novellas―that are health related, political, literary, spiritual, textbook, self-help, how-to, sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopia.

FictionCreative NonfictionTranslationNovellaShort Story CollectionsEssay CollectionsNovelMemoir

Selected authors
Florence Tholozan, La Toya Tanaka, Erika Raskin, S. Li, Abda Khan, Stu Krieger, Harriet Levin Millan, Yang Huang, Kelvin Christopher James, Fidelis O. Mkparu, Susan DeFreitas, Sean Elder, Michael A. Ferro, Joe Giordano, Michael Raleigh, Lowry Pei, Tony Rogers

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31
Reading feeNo
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should first review the press's catalog to ensure their work aligns with its thematic and stylistic preferences. Submissions are typically accepted via email or Submittable during designated reading periods, which are announced on the website and social media. Include a concise cover letter, a synopsis, and the first 10–20 pages of your manuscript. Because Harvard Square Editions operates with a small staff, response times can be lengthy; patience and professionalism are advised. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify the press immediately if your work is placed elsewhere. Given the press's cooperative model, be prepared to discuss your own capacity for marketing and promotion.

Submit queries via the link above. No attachments please. They do not appreciate gratuitous levels of profanity and violence. They do appreciate aesthetic value and constructive social or spiritual content.

Read official guidelines