Every writer has a few: those legendary lit mags we dream about when hitting “submit” on Submittable. The ones we read and reread when imposter syndrome sets in. The ones that feel just out of reach, but we can’t help but try anyway.
In the past, I’ve shared some Canadian submission opportunities for my readers who are also writers:
- 10 Notable Canadian Literary Magazines
- 10 (More) Notable Canadian Literary Magazines
- 10 More (More) Notable Canadian Literary Magazines
- 9 MORE Notable Canadian Literary Magazines + 1 Bonus
Today, though, I want to share my top five dream publications, the literary magazines I aspire to. These are top-tier. Almost mythical. The lit mags you’ll want to make time to read, the ones that push your own writing into bold, new places.
SmokeLong Quarterly
A classic, of course. I think every flash fiction writer dreams of seeing their words in SmokeLong. They publish stories that give you pause, that follow you around all day. If you want to set the bar for what flash can do, start here.
What to submit: Flash fiction under 1000 words.
Why submit: Because a tiered rejection from SmokeLong Quarterly will literally cure your imposter syndrome and infuse hope back into your writing. Oh, and they pay writers.
Typishly
Typishly is a journal that will make your work look good on the page. Their aesthetic leans polished and introspective, quality writing paired with beautiful visuals.
What to submit: Literary fiction and poetry.
Why submit: Because they respond within 24 hours with a personalized note, and even their rejections feel like positive reinforcement.
Reckon Review
My vibe in a lit mag. Reckon Review publishes writing that is rooted in a sense of place, stories that dig into the grit of lived experience. If your work has a strong sense of setting and a clear, authentic voice, you might have found your home.
What to submit: Prose (fiction and non-fiction) of any length.
Why submit: Because the stories they publish are grounded and real and honour ordinary people in overlooked places.
Pluggy plug: Reckon Review published my story, I Am the Deafening Silence.
Fractured Lit
“Fiction that lingers after the flash.” If you write flash that digs deep and hits hard, submit to Fractured Lit. They publish flash and micro fiction with emotional resonance that explores the mysteries of being human.
What to submit: Micro fiction (400 words or less) or flash fiction (401-1000 words).
Why submit: Because they’re always open, don’t charge submission fees, and pay writers. And because every story they publish lingers like a bruise.
Flash Frog
Bold, weird, heartfelt, and often unexpected, Flash Frog publishes one flash piece a week, each paired with original artwork created just for that story. They love stories that take risks, and they’ll treat yours like it matters.
What to submit: Flash fiction under 1000 words.
Why submit: Because each piece gets individual attention and vibrant visual accompaniment, and their weekly format gives each story its moment in the spotlight.
So, why am I sharing my dream publications? Because maybe they’re yours too. Or maybe you’ve never heard of one of these journals, and it turns out to be the perfect place for that little piece you’ve tucked away. Maybe you’re just looking for your next brave “submit” moment.
Happy submitting, and don’t forget: read the work they publish, follow their submission guidelines carefully, and don’t let rejection after rejection stop you from turning blank pages into stories.
Do you have a dream publication of your own? Leave it in the comments or send me a message. I’d love to hear where you’re submitting your words, and I’m here to cheer you on.
Aly Writes 