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About the press

Manic D Press is an independent publishing house founded in 1984 in San Francisco by Jennifer Joseph. Emerging from the city's vibrant underground literary and performance art scenes, the press was established to champion voices that were often marginalized by mainstream publishing—particularly poets, spoken word artists, and writers whose work defied easy categorization. Its early catalog featured a mix of punk-inflected poetry, experimental fiction, and anthologies that captured the raw energy of the Bay Area's alternative culture. Over four decades, Manic D Press has maintained a commitment to literary risk-taking and accessibility, publishing books that are as much artifacts of a particular cultural moment as they are enduring works of literature. The press's mission is to provide a platform for innovative, unorthodox writing that might otherwise go unheard, with a focus on work that is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally immediate.

Publishing focus

Resonant writing in most genres. For forty-plus years, Manic D has published a diverse spectrum of titles by a wide range of writers.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslationNovellaShort Story CollectionsEssay CollectionsNovelMemoirPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Daphne Gottlieb, Maw Shein Win, Adrienne Su, Myriam Gurba, Jeffrey McDaniel, Justin Chin, Thea Hillman, Clarence Major, Michelle Tea, Matt Cook

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

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

Manic D Press accepts submissions on a rolling basis, but writers are advised to first familiarize themselves with the press's catalog to ensure their work aligns with its aesthetic. The press favors poetry, short fiction, and hybrid works that demonstrate a distinctive voice and a willingness to experiment with form. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify the press immediately if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter, a synopsis for book-length projects, and a sample of no more than 10–15 pages. Response times can be lengthy due to the small staff, so patience is essential. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome, but do not send full manuscripts unless requested. Electronic submissions are preferred via the website's guidelines.

Familiarize yourself with our editorial aesthetic before submitting your work. Follow submission guidelines. If you’ve read our books and didn’t enjoy the experience, please submit your work elsewhere.

Read official guidelines