Portland Review accepts book review submissions from September through May via Submittable.
We are looking for thoughtful, engaging book reviews between 1000-1750 words. Reviews should be for forthcoming or recently published works, within the last two years, of fiction, poetry, or nonfiction, including anthologies, graphic novels, or hybrid works. While we may accept reviews of popular books or authors, we are especially interested in small press and indie titles.
A strong submission will go beyond a mere book summary to show a writer’s engagement not only with the book’s content, themes, and craft, but also with its meaning—aesthetically, politically, or intellectually. We celebrate rich language, thoughtful analysis, and investigation. As a literary journal, we are specifically seeking out creativity in craft rather than strictly academic analysis. Please see examples of reviews we have published previously.
- Please submit completed reviews, rather than pitches. We will respond within 3-6 months.
- Please do not send simultaneous submissions.
- Please disclose any relationship you have to the author of the book you’re reviewing if one exists.
- In your cover letter and at the top of your review, please list the book title, author’s name, press name, publication date, and your name and email address.