A manuscript of approximately 40-55 poems for a book of approximately 90-110 pages (count includes poems, front and back matter, blank pages, and section pages)
Include contact information on title page (we do not read anonymous submissions)
One inch margins all around
Do not use all caps for poem titles
Include Table of Contents
Include page numbers
Include Acknowledgments Page that lists journals and poem titles. Format as a list, not in paragraph form. Please note that we allow a maximum of 6 poems from a previously published chapbook(s). Regardless of the number of chapbooks, it’s no more than a total of 6 chapbook poems. Poems previously published in a chapbook should be indicated as such on the Acknowledgments page. Include title of poem and title of chapbook.
In cover letter area include a brief bio and a 4-6 sentence description of your manuscript—in your own words. Do not send a blurb.
We recommend that 25-50% of the poems have been previously published. More is fine.
Simultaneous submission is acceptable but please withdraw your manuscript immediately if it's accepted elsewhere.
We strongly suggest that you peruse at least one book from Terrapin Books before submitting. We suggest that you do this with any press before you submit.
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Terrapin Books is committed to publishing outstanding books of poetry by outstanding poets. We intend to fully support our poets. We will edit your manuscript and work with you on revisions. We expect our poets to actively engage in promoting their books. We require our poets to maintain a dedicated website and to be a member of Facebook.
Our books are 6 x 9, paperback, color cover, printed spine.
We are committed to publishing accepted titles within six months of acceptance. We do not maintain a long list of books-in-waiting.
We offer a standard contract, a generous number of author copies, a substantial discount on additional copies purchased by author, and a royalty payment.
Please note that we are unable to accept submissions from outside the US.