WTAW Press is a traditional, distributed independent press that acquires literary titles through an anonymous open submission process. In seeking to elevate and publish traditionally underrepresented authors, WTAW provides several opportunities to submit manuscripts for publication during open reading periods. We welcome submissions from writers of all backgrounds, including from new, emerging, and established voices. To stay current with our open reading periods and other news, sign up for our newsletter. Links to submit manuscripts are live only during open reading periods.
For each opportunity, be sure to review and follow the guidelines carefully. Anonymity is mandatory. There can be no identifying information on the manuscript, including the file name, headers, and title page. Manuscripts containing identifying information will be automatically disqualified and any feed forfeited.
The annual Kevin McIlvoy Book Prize is for a full-length book of prose (novel, memoir, creative nonfiction, collection of stories or essays, hybrid forms, etc.) The winner will receive $2500, book publication with a standard publishing contract that pays royalties, and 25 copies of their book. All submissions will be considered for publication.
WTAW offers the Alcove Chapbook Series Competition. The winner will receive book publication, a $250 honorarium, and 25 copies of their book. All submissions will be considered for publication.
WTAW Press's imprint Betty accepts submissions by authors who identify as women, including trans women, nonbinary and intersex authors, and authors whose gender is fluid or nonconforming. Betty has its own newsletter; sign up to keep current with open submission periods and more. You can find the imprint on social media platforms @thebettybooks.
Learn more about these opportunities and more at our website.
Thank you for considering WTAW Press and Betty. We look forward to reading your work.
JOIN THE WTAW PRESS TEAM
Working with WTAW Press offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in independent publishing, collaborate with a small literary team, and contribute your talents and ideas to bringing books and writers to readers.
We welcome inquiries about the following positions.
SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT
As the Social Media Assistant, you'll have the opportunity to develop your creative and communication skills while gaining firsthand experience in book marketing and promotion.
Responsibilities include developing and maintaining our social media calendars; creating graphics, videos, and written content that aligns with the WTAW ethos; engaging with and building our online community; and helping promote our books, authors, and events.
PUBLISHING ASSISTANT
As the Publishing Assistant, you’ll gain experience in diverse aspects of independent publishing, from editorial and production, to marketing and communications.
Responsibilities include drafting and editing newsletter content, creating promotional materials, support event planning and fundraising; conducting research; and supporting special projects.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
We're interested in candidates who write and communicate well and enjoy thinking creatively. We value initiative, reliability, and the ability to manage deadlines and work independently.
An eye for design, proficiency managing social media accounts, and experience in publishing or nonprofit work may be especially useful, depending on the position. Familiarity with Canva or similar design tools are a plus, but strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and enthusiasm are essential.
ELIGIBILITY AND COMPENSATION
All positions are part time and remote. Open roles are not salaried staff positions, but those who complete the minimum contractual period receive a modest financial stipend. For students eligible to receive academic credit, WTAW will provide the necessary documentation. We strongly encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
HOW TO APPLY
Please complete the Submittable form and be prepared to provide a brief explanation of your interest in WTAW and how your qualifications align with our mission. A current resume outlining your relevant experience is also required.
For social media applicants, you will be asked to include links to accounts you've managed or examples of content you've created.
Thank you for your interest in WTAW Press!
If you're so inclined to support the activities of WTAW Press, we gratefully accept.
Please note: this is not an opportunity to submit a manuscript.
Manuscripts are only accepted during our open reading periods and through the direct categories reserved for submissions. If you don't see any categories for submitting a manuscript, try another time. You can keep up with our open submission periods on our website and by signing up for our newsletter.
Thank you for your support!