How do I know whether my manuscript qualifies as "new environmental literature"?
We define "new environmental literature" as works that focus on issues pertaining to the protection and conservation of the planet and all species of animals. This emerging genre makes a solid connection between the way we treat animals and the way we treat our planet; it extends protection to all animals, human and non-human, and calls for responsibility and evolution for a changing planet.
Please feel free to visit Ashland Creek Press to get an idea of the types of books we like and for a sampling of eco-fiction. Free excerpts are available for all of our titles, and you can also download our free Eco-Fiction Sampler. Please also check out our fiction anthologies, Among Animals and Among Animals 2, to get an idea of the types of stories we feel represent animal literature; in addition, the nonfiction anthology Writing for Animals offers insights into writing about animals. We also welcome books with vegetarian and vegan themes if they relate to animal welfare.
In fiction, what genres can be submitted?
We will consider all genres (for example, literary, mystery, YA, thriller), as long as the book has strong environmental/animal protection themes. Our top considerations are the environmental issues explored in the book as well as the quality of the writing.
Do you accept submissions from outside the United States?
Yes, we accept prize submissions from authors all over the world; manuscripts must be submitted in English.
Can I submit more than one work?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of works submitted by one author, but each manuscript must be entered separately and be accompanied by the $25 reading fee.
Can I mail you a print copy of my manuscript?
No. We place a priority on minimizing our use of paper resources, so we cannot accept print copies of unpublished manuscripts. For published books, we strongly prefer digital files (the final version of the book as a PDF), but we do accept print copies of published books only. For published books, please use Submittable to pay the fee and include a cover letter letting us know the book will arrive via U.S. mail (Ashland Creek Press, Attn: Siskiyou Prize, 2305 Ashland Street, Suite C417, Ashland, OR 97520). Please note that authors/publishers may be asked to submit a second hard copy if their books are chosen as finalists.
When will you announce the winner?
We hope to announce the winner and finalists within three months of the submission deadline, but our timeline may change based on our judge's schedule. Thank you for your patience!
Do you offer refunds?
Unfortunately, no. The entry is used to cover time, expenses, a stipend for judging, and the cash award for the winner.
I submitted a draft that I wish to revise. Can I send an updated draft?
We're sorry, but we cannot consider revisions once you've submitted.
If my manuscript wins, will it be published by Ashland Creek Press?
All unpublished manuscripts entered for the Siskiyou Prize will be considered for publication.
What if my manuscript is more than 90,000 words?
Our guideline for manuscripts of approximately 40,000 to 90,000 words is just that: a guideline. Manuscripts will ultimately be judged on quality, not word count. This guideline is primarily to indicate that we are seeking book-length manuscripts, not individual essays or stories.