Kestrel

Open now for fiction, nonfiction, and other work.

Last updated

Kestrel is a literary magazine publishing fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, reviews, and visual art, with a focus on both established and emerging writers and artists.

Response time info: 3-5 months but allow 6 months before inquiring

Read the full guidelines at fairmontstate.edu

Submission calls

fiction

Open to any genre of short fiction that questions assumptions and moves us to reconsider everyday life; up to 5,000 words. Enjoys both traditional and experimental writing.

nonfiction

Creative nonfiction, memoir, or literary essays preferred; subject matter may vary but craft and art are paramount.

other

Wrongfully Neglected: Recommendations, reflections, and reviews of overlooked or forgotten literature published more than 2 years ago; 500-750 words.

poetryOpens Sep 1

Kestrel welcomes poems of all genres, styles, and traditions, including experimental and hybrid forms, as well as poetry in translation. Send 3-5 poems during one of our reading periods. (Submissions on pause for summer 2026; will begin reading poetry submissions again in September 2026.)

Wondering if your story fits?

Leafmines can check your piece against any market's word limits and genres.

Other markets open for fiction, nonfiction, and other work