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Small Press

unlikelystories.org

Unlikely Books

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Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Unlikely Books is the book-publishing arm of Unlikely Stories, a literary and arts platform founded in 1998 by Jonathan Penton. Emerging from the online magazine's commitment to experimental, outsider, and politically engaged writing, Unlikely Books extends that mission into print and digital book publication. The press focuses on poetry, fiction, and hybrid texts that challenge conventional literary norms, often amplifying voices from marginalized communities and avant-garde traditions. Its catalog reflects a DIY, anti-establishment ethos, prioritizing artistic risk over commercial viability.

Publishing focus

Unlikely Books are created in collaboration with Unlikely Stories Six . Their extensive mission statement is at www.unlikelystories.org/mission.shtml .

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionChapbookNovellaShort Story CollectionsEssay CollectionsNovelMemoirPoetry Collections

Selected authors
j/j hastain, Tom Bradley, Marc Vincenz, Deb Hoag, León De la Rosa, Anne McMillen

Calls & opportunities

3 listed
Open

Unlikely Books — Submissions

View opportunity Official listing
Open

Unlikely Books — Submissions

View opportunity Official listing
Open

Unlikely Books — Submissions

View opportunity Official listing

Manuscript submissions

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

Unlikely Books accepts submissions via email as outlined on its website. They seek full-length manuscripts of poetry, fiction, and cross-genre work that align with their anti-authoritarian, experimental sensibility. Before submitting, read several titles from their catalog to understand their taste. Include a brief cover letter, a synopsis, and the first 10–15 pages of your manuscript. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify them promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Response times can be slow due to the volunteer-run nature of the press; patience is advised. They prioritize work by underrepresented writers and those pushing formal boundaries.

Do take a look at Unlikely Stories Six to understand us better.

Read official guidelines
6 items

Explore titles from the press’s catalogue.

Past Issue

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Past Issue

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Past Issue

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Past Issue

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Past Issue

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Past Issue

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