Dear Brittle Paperians, we are making a children’s anthology!

In 2021, we published a list of wonderful African literary reads for children, and since then, the genre has continued to flourish. This year, we are contributing to the growing space by publishing a collection of works, from nursery rhymes, bedtime stories, and tales of fantastical worlds, for the kiddos to enjoy!

The anthology will include 15 pieces from writers from the continent and diaspora, and we are looking for works aimed at children, ages 0-12. With that in mind, submissions should include poems, nursery rhymes, and short stories of colourful characters and exciting tales! Since this is for the youngest of Brittle Paper readers, we are also accepting submissions of illustrations, be it part of a story or a separate submission, and comic strips!

Submission Guidelines:

  • Poetry submission word limit: 500 words
  • Fiction, Nonfiction, and Essay submission word limit: 3500 words
  • Include an author biography, along with nationality
  • Simultaneous submissions are allowed, but each submission needs to consist of only one piece of original and unpublished work.
  • Submissions need to be in Word format
  • Selection process will take place after the deadline, and late submissions may not be included in the selection process.
  • Email subject heading: Children’s Anthology Submission
  • Email your submission to [email protected]

*Kindly note, if your work is accepted, you will need to be available for editorial and publication approval. 

DEADLINE: 9 June 2025