2005 MAGAZINE MARKET SURVEY

ADAM MAGAZINE: 4517 Harford Rd., Baltimore, MD 21214. New college men’s bi-monthly magazine to debut early 2002 from the publisher of Girls’ Life. Open to freelancers who can tackle topics – finance, education, sports, trends, history, relationships, pop culture, health and law -- in a serious, intellectual way. Query. Features: 1,000-2,000 words. Columns 300 words. Payment varies. Email: adameditor@aol.com.

ADVOCATE, PKA’S PUBLICATION: 1881 Little Westkill Rd., Prattsville, NY 12468. Bi-monthly advocates good writing and art by publishing fiction and nonfiction stories (to 1,500 words), poetry (any length), illustration and photos by newcomers. "We wish to give an opportunity to be published to those not earning a living as writers," says publisher Patricia Keller. TIP: Well written horse stories, poetry, B&W art and photos are needed. Submit complete middle grade and YA mss. Acquires first rts. Pays with contributor copies. [B]

AIM: P.O. Box 1174, Maywood, IL 60153. www.aimmagazine.org. Thirty-year-old literary quarterly for students from upper elementary school to college, designed to help eliminate racism. Seeks well-written articles and essays with lasting social significance covering multicultural and ethnic issues, social topics, politics and education. Short story contest once yearly, with prize of $100 and publication. Buys first rights. Articles and essays $15-25.

AMERICAN GIRL: 8400 Fairway Place, Middleton, WI 53562-2554. www.americangirl.com/agmg/index.html. Bimonthly, four-color magazine for girls 8 and up seeks contemporary fiction up to 2,3000 words featuring a female protagonist between 8-12, who captures the hopes, thoughts and emotions unique to ‘tween-age. Top quality writing needed. No sci-fi, romance, horror. Also: 600-word nonfiction profiles about girls or girl groups doing something of interest to their peers. TIP: Freelancers have most opportunity in the "Girls Express" section of short profiles (150 words, first-person POV) of girls with unusual experiences; how-to stories; easy crafts and recipes.

ASK: 332 South Michigan Ave., Suite 1100, Chicago, IL 60604. www.askmag.net. Carus Publishing’s non-fiction science and ideas magazine published six times per year for ages 7-10. "Almost all our articles are commissioned," says Editor Lonnie Plecha. "Authors wishing to be considered for commissioned work should send writing samples, resume, and detailed ideas for articles for upcoming themes." See website for theme list. Inexperienced writers are invited to submit short science news items after studying back issues. Buys all rights. Pays approx. 35 cents per word.

BABAGANEWZ: 11141 Georgia Ave., Wheaton MD 20902 www.babaganewz.com. New national magazine for Jewish day schools and Hebrew schools. Content appeals to middle school students of diverse Jewish cultural and religious backgrounds, from Orthodox to liberal. Editors seek short, dynamic articles (500-700 words) that reflect contemporary Jewish life. See guidelines and editorial calendar at the website. Mail or e-mail submissions to Ina Lerman: ina@babaganewz.com.

BOYS’ LIFE: 1325 W. Walnut Hill Lane, Irving, TX. 75015. www.boyslife.org. Monthly magazine, fiction and nonfiction, to entertain boys ages 6-18. "Write for a boy you know who is 12," suggests Senior Editor Mike Goldman. "Our readers demand crisp, punchy writing in relatively short, straightforward sentences. " Editors demand well-reported articles that demonstrate high journalistic standards. Fiction genres include mystery, adventure, humor and science fiction. Nonfiction includes "everything that pertains to a 12-year-old boy’s life from pro sports to American history, to how to pack a canoe." Query for articles, 500-1,5000 words, and departments. Query or send complete manuscript for fiction, 1,000-1,500 words. Pays 50 cents per word and up.

BRIO: Focus on the Family, 8605 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920. www.briomag.com. Seeks articles for girls 12-15 that entertain, teach, and challenge girls about Christianity. Fiction requires realistic character development about daily situations faced by ordinary teens. No preaching. Study magazine before sending queries and mss. to Associate Editor Marty Kasza. Buys first rights. Pays 8-15 cents per word.

CADET QUEST: P.O. Box 7259, Grand Rapids, MI 49510. www.calvinistcadets.org. Christian magazine for boy ages 9-14, published by Calvinist Cadet Corps ministry. Seeks fast-moving and entertaining fiction 1,000-1,300 words that presents Christian values. Topics include sports, humor, adventure, mystery and friends. Nonfiction to 1,500 words needed about Christian athletes, coaching tips and developing character through sports. How-to articles on camping, nature and outdoor survival; project articles with clear instructions; cartoons and puzzles. Fiction should fit monthly themes as scheduled each January. Send entire manuscript within body of email (no attachments) to Submissions@calvinistcadets.org, or mail with SASE go editor G. Richard Broene. Buys first or reprint rights.

CALLIOPE: 30 Grove St., Suite C, Peterborough, NH 03458. www.cobblestonepub.com. Published nine times annually for ages 8 to 14. Theme based articles and stories on world history from ancient times to the 1800s. TIP: Queries must follow magazine form and content. Accuracy is paramount, and bibliography must not rely on web and encyclopedia sources. Query with outline, bibliography and clips or writing samples to Co-Editor Rosalie Baker. Pays 20-25 cents per word.

CAMPUS LIFE: 465 Gundersen Drive, Carol Stream, IL 6018. www.campuslife.net. Christian magazine for adolescent teens seeks writers with Christian world view to write fiction and nonfiction. Wants first-person stories capturing teen experiences and life lessons. Will consider "as told to" stories based on interviews with teens. Also wants humorous pieces and informative articles for teens considering a Christian college. No essays, how-tos, or adult perspectives. Guidelines with SASE. Query with one-page synopsis to Christopher Lutes, Editor.

CHALKDUST-ONLINE: www.Chalkdust-Online.com, a website for teachers, seeks inspirational essays for and about teachers. Pays $5 on publication for one-time, non-exclusive rights. Essays may be considered for inspirational anthology. Pays $100 on publication. Guidelines at web site.

CHEMMATTERS: 1155 16th St., NW, Washington, DC 20036. www.chemistry.org/education/chemmatters.html. American Chemical Society quarterly publication for students. Seeking articles "connecting chemistry to the real world," says Managing Editor Helen Herlocker. Topics include plasma screen TVs, new cosmetics, snack foods. Query with abstact, outline, related material conveying the content, and sample. Articles 1,400-2,100 words. Buys all rights. Payment: $500-650.

CICADA: P.O. Box 300, Peru, IL 61354. www.cricketmag.com. Bimonthly literary magazine for ages 14 and up published by Cricket Magazine Group. Features original short stories, poems, and first-person essays. Fiction short stories to 5,000 words, novellas to 15,000 words (one per issue): realistic, contemporary, historical fiction, adventure, humor, satire, fantasy, science fiction Main protagonist should be age 14 or older; stories should have a genuine teen sensibility and be aimed at readers in high school or college. Nonfiction to 5,000 words: first-person experiences relevant to teens. Poetry to 25 lines: serious or humorous; rhymed or free verse. Other: book reviews providing in-depth, thoughtful commentary (300-500 words). 9-10 month lead time. Will hold stories for publication up to one year, so accepts seasonal submissions all year long. TIPS: "We see too many depressing illness stories, especially about terminal cancer," says Exec. Editor Deborah Vetter. "And please dig deep into nonfiction subjects with thorough research." Wants: historical fiction, sports stories, good satirical humor, and, "believe it or not, romance." Pays upon publication; up to 25 cents per word for stories; up to $3 per line for poems. Direct art samples to Ron McCutchan, Sr. Art Director.

CLUBHOUSE: 8605 Explorer Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920. Focus on the Family magazine for Christian youth 8-12 seeks wholesome and exciting educational material with scriptural insight. Fiction needs (500-1500 words) include humorous stories; historical fiction featuring Christians; holidays; parables; fantasy; mystery; westerns; retold Bible stories. No poems, romance, contemporary settings. Nonfiction needs include essays w/ unique facts; Christian interviews; scripts for Bible comics; activities; funny essays; news articles. No textbook style features. Submit to editor Jesse Florea. Pays 15-20 cents per word for nonfiction, $200 and up for feature fiction, $150 and up for Bible stories.

COBBLESTONE: Suite C, 30 Grove St., Peterborough, NH 03458. www.cobblestonepub.com. American history magazine for middle school students provides in-depth look at historical figures tying into issue themes. Editor Meg Chorlian is "always seeking activities or fun interviews relating to themes." Fully-researched nonfiction articles 700-800 words, fiction to 800 words. Query with outline, bibliography, and clips/samples. Pays 20- 25 cents per word.

COLLEGEBOUND TEEN: 1200 South Ave., Suite 202, Staten Island, NY 10314. www.collegeboundteen.com. Provides high schoolers with practical advice and real-life experiences about choosing and applying for college and all aspects of college life. TIP: Managing Editor Dawn Papandrea seeks articles with "specific, unique angles, and interesting interview subjects. Anything with a college angle is suitable if pitched in a unique way." Include expert and real-student sources. Pays $70-100 for features of 700-1,500 words; typically buys all rights, but will also purchase first rights. Query with clips or samples to editorial@collegebound.net.

CONFETTI: P.O. Box 71152, Salt Lake City, UT 84171-0152. www.confetti-celebration.com. A quarterly children’s magazine launched by a group of SCBWI members for self-publishing & showcasing the work of subscribers. Unpublished writers and illustrators are especially welcomed as Confetti provides a unique opportunity to showcase work. In addition to subscribers, Confetti is distributed to agents and to over 60 publishing houses with the goal of exposing unpublished work for sale to acquisition editors. Payment is five copies of author/illustrator’s published submission. TIP: "We are currently soliciting picture-oriented material -- stories and non-fiction articles of 500 words or less. Poems no longer than 20 lines; please send up to 3 poems at a time. Craft projects under 75 words. Non-fiction is of particular interest." FYI: Editors are currently deciding magazine’s future.

CRICKET: P.O. Box 300, Peru, IL 61354. www.cricketmag.com. Monthly magazine for readers 9-14, publishes original stories, poems, and articles written by some of the world's best children’s authors. Sometimes purchases rights for excerpts from books not yet published. Issues also include reprints of high-quality selections. Fiction: realistic, contemporary, historical, humor, mysteries, fantasy, science fiction, folk tales, fairy tales, legends, myths. Nonfiction: biography, history, science, technology, natural history, social science, archeology, architecture, geography, foreign culture, travel, adventure, sports. Poetry: serious, humorous, nonsense rhymes. Other: crossword puzzles, logic puzzles, math puzzles, crafts, recipes, science experiments, games and activities from other countries, plays, music, art. Stories: 200-2,000 words. Articles: 200-1,500 words. Pays up to 25 cents per word. Poems: not longer than 50 lines. Pays up to $3 per line. Pays upon publication. Cricket commissions all art separately from the text; send art samples to: Ron McCutchan, Sr. Art Director. 9-10 month lead time. TIPS: "We publish a lot of folktales, but we get a lot of submissions," says Exec. Editor Deborah Vetter. "We want to see more contemporary fiction that takes place in foreign countries." Structures issues by internal theme list based on editors’ collection of submissions, so don’t write to particular themes to submit. No queries; submit complete mss. only.

CRINKLES: 17 East Henrietta St., Baltimore, MD 21230-3910. www.crinkles.com. Bi-monthly for children ages 7 to 11 designed to stimulate a child's curiosity about people, places, things and events-both real and imaginary. Each issue features over a dozen articles with hands-on activities such as paper action figures, flip books, bookmarks, puppets, word puzzles and fold-up models. Each activity leads to reading and viewing to solve puzzles and interact with the text. Articles are researched and written on assignment by leaders in the education arena to develop children's skills in critical thinking, independent research and study habits. Writers must be knowledgeable about children’s literature and write to the issue’s themes, such as sports, history, current events, folktales, myths, people places, animals. Email editor Paula Montgomery for theme list, then send queries and writing samples via: paulam@crinkles.com. Buys work-for-hire rights for $150 and up.

DOGS FOR KIDS: P.O. Box 6050, Mission Viejo, CA 92690. www.dogsforkids.com. New quarterly for children 9-16 from the publisher of Dog Fancy. Open to new writers. Wants informational articles, how-to’s, profiles of special dogs and their owners, and personal experience. Also: ideas for training, grooming, and volunteering. No fiction. Articles: 1.200-1,800 words. Mail or email queries with writing samples to: Managing Editor Roger Sipe: rsipe@fancypubs.com. Buys first rights. Payment varies.

DYNAMATH: 557 Broadway, Room 367, NY, NY 10012-3999. Scholastic’s monthly classroom magazine for math students grades 3-6. Editor Matt Friedman seeks articles that show real-life applications of math skills from sports to popular culture. 600 words including an activity using math in story. No percents, algebra, trigonometry or higher math. Also seeks interdisciplinary articles with graph-reading activities, based on current events with kid-appeal. Pays $150-450 per article. Query with SASE. TIP: Successful freelance submissions are rare as 99% of copy is generated in-house.

FAMILY FUN: Disney Publishing Company. 244 Main St., Northhampton, MA 01060. www.familyfun.go.com. Major nat’l monthly seeks "great ideas from parents about fun activities that they’ve tried out with their children," says Features Editor Jon Adolph. Always seeking fun activities for ages 3-12, including crafts, theme parties, cooking, holidays, and family travel. No advice, child rearing or health articles. Query with outline to Submissions Editor. Buys all rights. Payment varies.

FLW OUTDOORS FOR KIDS: 30 Gamble Lane, Benton, KY 42025. Children’s pullout published in each issue of FLW Outdoors Magazine for adults. Seeks original short stories – fiction and non-fiction – of 500 words about fishing, esp. bass fishing, for readers 7-9. Send queries to Associate Editor Jennifer Stevenson. Pays $200 upon acceptance.

FOCUS ON THE FAMILY CLUBHOUSE: 8605 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80902. www.clubhousemagazine.com. Christian monthly magazine features scriptural inspiration with an element of action, adventure, or humor, for ages 8 to 12. Historical fiction, religious fiction, and mysteries. "Our purpose is to provide wholesome, educational material with scriptural or moral insight that excites kids through adventure, action, humor, or mystery. We accept manuscripts and often publish new writers. A punchy opening gets the reader right into the story and immediately highlights relevance to the audience," says Associate Editor Suzanne Hadley. Also publishes fact essays containing 12-18 "off the wall" facts on a subject or theme such as nature or animals, and timelines with a list of dates detailing the history of an item, such as pencils or chocolate. Topics include history, nature, sports, religion, and current events. Submit manuscripts to Sarah Adams, Editorial Asst. Articles: 800-1,000 words; pays 10-25 cents per word.. Fiction: 800-1,400 words; pays up to $200. No contemporary fiction set in middle-class America, stories dealing with boy/girl relationships, or Bible stories without a unique format.

FRINGEGOLF: Suite 205, 360 Ritch St., San Francisco, CA 94170-1275. www.fringegolf.com. Young golfers who don’t fit the standard mold are the target for this new sports bimonthly. Guidelines available on website. Articles: 1.500-4,000 words. Editors want interesting profiles and stories on golf-related issues. Columns: 700-1,000 words; should offer a fresh slant on any area of the golf world. Prefers queries emailed to: editor@fringegolf.com. Include two or three published clips. Payment varies.

FUN FOR KIDZ: P.O. Box 227, Bluffton, OH 45817-0164. www.funforkidzmagazine.com. Activity-based title for kids 5-13 (targeted readership 8-10) wants fiction and non-fiction theme-related submissions, including: articles, stories, science experiments, word games, puzzles. Non-fiction must inclue good B&W photos. Fiction must include a related activity. SASE for guidelines and theme list. Mail submissions to Virginia Edwards, assoc. ed. Buys first North American rights. Pays 5 cents per word; pays for photos.

GIRLS LIFE: 4517 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214. www.girlslife.com For girls ages 8 to 15, covering such topics as friendship, self-esteem, and school, boys, time management, and sports. Editors seek articles with a new spin on these subjects. "We welcome pitches from new writers for all of our features and fiction," says Associate Editor Lizzie Skurnick. "We love great ideas, but they’ve really got to speak to the average 12-year-old girl and the issues affecting her life right now. Keep your eyes on this market." Query or send manuscript with resume and clips to kellygirl@girlslife.com. Articles 1,200 to 2,500 words. Payment varies.

GO-GIRL: 1200 South Ave., Suite 202, Staten Island, NY 10314. E-zine targets teen girls to "help them be academic divas," says Managing Editor Dawn Papandrea. Articles include tips on college and careers, health, fitness, beauty, and fashion. Wants unique profiles of teen girls emphasizing education: scholarship winners or entrepreneurs. Also seeks personal experience pieces on relationships, and informational articles on pop culture. Writing should be a blend of expert and real-girl sources. Articles: 200-600 words. Buys first rights. Payment varies. Query with clips to Editor-in-Chief Gina LaGuardia: editorial@collegebound.net.

GUIDEPOSTS FOR KIDS: 1050 Broadway, Suite 6, Chesterton, IN 46304. www.gp4k.com. This e-zine’s Managing Editor Rosanne Tolin welcomes materials on action-oriented individuals – firefighters, law enforcement officers, detectives, pro athletes -- whose work "requires quick thinking combined with physical effort." Buys six stories annually. Also seeks submissions for "Tips From the Top" department, featuring firsthand stories from professional athletes including two or three actual tips from the subject, "concrete suggestions to improve the reader’s own game."

HOLIDAYS AND SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS: 308 N. Pine St., New London, IA 52645. Mary Tucker, Assistant Editor, requests that all submissions be sent to the above address, care of "Mary's Writehouse."

HOPSCOTCH: P.O. Box 164, Bluffton, OH 45817. Lively girls-point-of-view fiction (to 1000 words), nonfiction (to 500 words) and poetry wanted on wholesome topics: pets, nature, hobbies, science, games, sports, careers. No fashion or romance. Submit B&W photos with non-fiction. Buys first American serial rts. Pays 5 cents per word for fiction and nonfiction; extra for photos. $10 and up for poetry, crafts, recipes, jokes games. Submit to editor Marilyn Edwards.

HUMPTY DUMPTY’S MAGAZINE: 1100 Waterway Blvd., P.O. Box 567, Indianapolis, IN 46206. www.humptydumptymag.org. Bi-monthly for children 4-6 includes fiction(easy-to-reads, read alouds, rhyming stories, rebus stories), nonfiction articles, poems, crafts, recipes and puzzles. TIP: Editor Phyllis Lybarger says content should encourage healthy habits. No queries. Only buys 20 mss. per year.

JACK AND JILL: 1100 Waterway Blvd., Indianapolis, IN 46206-0567. www.jackandjillmag.org. Published by the Children’s Better Health Institute, Jack And Jill "focuses on health and fitness for children, as well as science and other educational material," says Editor Daniel Lee. "We’ll look at pieces offering a fresh approach to our core areas of physical fitness, exercise, and medical matters. Publishes fiction, nonfiction, activities, puzzles, and games for ages 7 to 10. Articles: 500-600 words. Send complete mss. to editor. Payment varies.

JUNIOR BASEBALL: P.O. Box 9099, Canoga Park, CA 91309. www.juniorbaseball.com. "America’s Youth Baseball Magazine" is a bimonthly for ages 7-17 and their parents. Seeks 1,000-1,5000 word articles about baseball leagues, history, tournaments and businesses. Submissions must be accurate, detailed and full of supporting facts, figures and anecdotes. No fiction or poems. Query with outline to editor Dave Destler. Buys all rights. Pays 10-20 cents per word.

KEYNOTER: 3636 Woodview Trace, Indianapolis, IN 46268. www.keyclub.org. Distributed quarterly to members of Kiwanis International Key Club who are ages 14-18. Article topics include current news, leadership tips, service project ideas, and education and career information. Executive Editor Shanna Mooney is seeking articles aimed at students interested in service and leadership. No first-person accounts or profiles. Articles: 1,200-1,500 words. Query with outline/synopsis and clips of writing samples. Send to: Executive Editor. Payment varies.

MARTHA STEWART KIDS: 11 West 42nd Street, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10036. Tough-to-break-into up-market consumer quarterly sets the bar high. The majority of copy and art is created in-house after undergoing rigid style and testing criteria, especially for recipes and crafts. The fact that there is no writers guidelines sheet is clear indicator that freelancers are not encouraged to submit. Still, editor Kelly Smith Killian says opportunity exists for very-skilled specialists and stylists for how-to projects, including art, crafts, furniture, young fashion, party planning, etc,, especially in the "Good Things" front of book section. Think seasonally and submit accordingly.

KIDS HALL OF FAME NEWS: 3 Ibsen Ct., Dix Hills, NY 11746. www.thekidshalloffame.com. This quarterly spotlights young people under 20 who have achieved something positive or extraordinary for someone their age or in their situation. Wants 1-2,000 word profiles of historical or contemporary peer role models and their achievements. Include B&W photo of subject in action. Prefers complete mss. submitted to Publisher Victoria Nesnick by mail or email: victorianesnick@thekidshalloffame.com. Prefers all rights. Pays $100.

KID ZONE: Suite 440, 705 Douglas St., Sioux City, IA 51101. Mostly in-house-written crafts and kids stories magazine is considering freelancers with an education background. Queries to: Kidzonemag@aol.com. Core readership ages 7-10. Used by day care centers, parents and educators.

KIDS’ READING ROOM / LOS ANGELES TIMES: 202 W. 1st Street, Los Angeles, California 90012. Nearly-daily page in major metro newspaper devoted to fiction and nonfiction stories for children 7-12. Editor Mary Ellen Walker purchases 104 original, unpublished freelance submissions each year, 2 stories per week: a short story of 300 to 350 words ($100), and a serial story in five parts to 1500 words ($500). Serials should be written in five parts (300-350 words each) with parts 1-4 ending with a short teaser that sets up the next day's segment. Start parts 2-5 with a short synopsis of previous parts. Nonfiction must include a numbered bibliography of credible primary & secondary sources. Have copy verified by an authority to fact check, and credit that person’s contribution.

LIBRARY SPARKS: W5527 State Road 106, P.O. Box 800, Fort Atkinson, WI 53580. www.librarysparks.com. Subtitled "Activated to Encourage Lifelong Readers" and published nine times a year, this theme-based magazine provides resources and activities for use in elementary through high school. Seeks library lessons or story-time articles to e used as library or classroom programming for elementary grades. Most interested in articles by librarians with practical, ready-to-use ideas. Topics include teaching library skills, ideas for motivating students to read, connecting literature to the curriculum, lesson plans for librarians and children’s authors. Query or submit manuscript to Managing Editor Michelle McCardell: librarysparks@highsmithpress.com. Pays $250-300 per article.

MAD: 1700 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. America’s oldest comedy magazine is actively looking to expand their pool of freelance comedy writers and there's more opportunity to join The Usual Gang Of Idiots than ever. Seeks new comic strips, hard-hitting satire, media parody, utter silliness, "Mad 20 Features" for annual run-down of the 20 Dumbest People, Events & Things of the Year. TIP: Front-of-the-book-section provides great outlet for topical, short form humor. "This is an excellent place for first time writers to break in," says editor John Ficarra. Especially prized are biting social satire and outrageously funny quick takes. Do not submit "rewritten Mad-like junk, your take on already existing features, and movie & TV satires." Submit or query by email to: submissions@madmagazine.com. Pays $500 per page, prorates for shorter work. Illustrators submit printed samples to Art Director San Viviano.

THE MAGAZINE OF FANTASY & SCIENCE FICTION: P.O. Box 3447, Hoboken, NJ 07030. www.fsfmag.com. Long-running YA (and adult) monthly buys 80-120 fiction manuscripts each year. TIP: "We never receive enough science fiction of humor," says editor Gordon Van Gelder. "The science fiction element may be slight but it should be present." Pays 5-8 cents per word on acceptance. Success stories include "Flowers for Algernon" and "The Brave Little Toaster."

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC FOR KIDS: 1145 17th St., Washington, DC 20036-4688. www.nationalgeographic.com/ngkids Monthly photo-driven Top 10 magazine spin-off for kids 6-12 (circ. 900,000) is an interactive, multitopic magazine covering animals, entertainment, science, technology, current events, and cultures from around the world. TIP: Not just for scientists! Editor Melina Bellows seeks writers who can write heartwarming stories about animals and weird-but-true things about the world. Query with credits to department editor targeted or Sarah Wassner. Photo queries to: jsumner@ngs.org.

THE NATIONAL POETRY REVIEW: P.O. Box 640625, San Jose, Ca. 5164-0625. New magazine seeks contemporary verse submissions. Open to well-crafted poetry in formal and free verse modes, especially with rich sound, play within form, and unique diction and syntax (such as E. E. Cummings, Stuart Lishan, or Anna Rabinowitz). Classical verse too. Submit 3 - 5 poems, double spaced, with brief bio & contact information including email address. Buys first rights. No previously published poems. Send to Editor C. J. Sage. Payment is one copy of the issue in which work appears. A cash prize will be awarded for the best poem published each year.

NEW MOON: 34 E. Superior St., #200, Duluth, MN 55802. www.newmoon.org. Magazine celebrates the diversity of girls 8 to 14 and publishes work by girls and women only. Girls write feature articles and several departments. Accepting adult submissions of fiction with strong girls characters, articles about women in history & in careers, articles about puberty & body care, and science articles with activities or experiments. Mail query or mss to Editorial Dept. or email to girl@newmoon.org. Pays 6-12 cents per word.

ON THE LINE: 616 Walnut Ave., Scottsdale, PA 15683. www.mph.org. Mennonite Publishing inspirational magazine for ages 9-14. General educational articles include Nature Facts department with simple scientific information (animals, weather, etc.), and school concerns (handling bullies, making new friends, packing an eco-lunch). TIP: Editor Mary Clemens Meyer wants to see more short bios (300-500 words) about historic figures, especially Christians. All subjects must be of interest to Americans and Canadians, so steer clear of U.S. political figures.

PLAYS: P.O. Box 600160, Newton, MA 02460. www.playsmag.com. Plays, the Drama Magazine for Young People features one-act skits and plays for students in elementary through high school to perform. Editor Liz Preston seeks plays sensitively handling contemporary issues that kids face, including topics such as friendship, relationships, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Morals are secondary to entertainment value. One-act high school plays to 5,000 words; middle school to 3,750 words; elementary school, to 2,500 words. No religious themes. Payment varies.

POCKETS: The Upper Room, 1908 Grand Avenue., P.O. Box 34004, Nashville, TN 37203-0004. www.pockets.org. Christian, interdenominational, not-overly religious monthly for kids 6-11 seeks stories and articles 400-1000 words following theme lists. Also: short stories or poems for kids 4-7 (to 600 words), games and filler. Pays up to 14 cents per word for first or reprint rights for separate on-line edition with different material. Query to Lynn Gilliam, assoc. ed.

POSITIVE TEENS: P.O. Box 1136, Boston, MA 02130. www.positiveteensmag.com. SATCH Publishing magazine for teens and young adults age 12-21 of all ethnic, racial, religious and sexual persuasions and physical abilities. Diversity of content reflects readership. "We are always seeking articles that reflect real stories about real teens," says Susan Manning, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief. Publishes respectful true stories from teen perspectives, focusing on literacy and education. Also: fiction and nonfiction by 12-21 year olds. TIP: "Think like a 9-14 year old and look at your topic with an eye for unusual details and possible visuals. Sidebars are a definite plus as are recommendations for additional reading, or related puzzles and activities." No religious articles that lecture, or adults writing in a teen voice. Query or send mss. to info@positiveteensmag.com. Payment varies.

PUNK PLANET: 4229 N. Honore, Chicago IL 60613. 773-248-7172. www.punkplanet.com Bi-monthly teen/YA magazine (circulation: 12,000) dedicated to indie music, culture and politics. "We're fiercely independent and dedicated to living outside the mainstream." Seeks cutting-edge articles ($60), in depth interviews ($40), DIY features (how to buy a van, make soap, anything funky; $30) from 1,500 – 4,000 words, and one short fiction (700-1500 words; $30) "We accept unsolicited submissions but only print two out of 50." General inquiry, submissions & pitches to the editor: punkplanet@punkplanet.com or on disk and paper via mail. Send reviews queries to reviews@punkplanet.com

SHINE BRIGHTLY: P.O. Box 7259, Grand Rapids, MI 49510. www.gemsgc.org. Magazine for girls 9-14 by GEMS Girls’ Clubs to give guidance and understanding of how God and faith can get them through life’s challenges. Article topics include community service, family life, peer pressure, social issues, and Christian life. Fiction genres include contemporary, mystery, sports and nature. Nonfiction, 100-400 words; fiction, 400-900 words. Request theme list before submitting, then address ms. to Managing Editor. Buys first and second rights. Pays 3 cents per word.

SEVENTEEN: 1440 Broadway, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10018. www.Seventeen.com. National teen ‘zine accepts non-fiction articles on subjects of interest to teens and young adults, ages 15 to 23. Writers should read at least six back issues of the magazine to pitch ideas consistent with Seventeen's editorial vision. Include published clips when submitting mss. or query. Allow at least six weeks for reply. Inexperienced writers may need to write on spec with no guarantee of payment. Pays on publication; rates vary depending on quality, length and placement in the magazine. Query to Sarah Nanus, Features Ed. No longer publishes fiction.

SKATING: 20 First St., Colorado Springs, CO 80906. www.usfsa.org. Official publication from the U.S. Figure Skating Association needs more articles about amateur athletes and programs, including athletes at all levels, beginner to adult. "The best way to catch our eye is to submit a unique query," says Editor Amy Partain. "That requires knowing our magazine." TIP: Know skating, find an uncommon subject, and present it from a unique angle (ex: a report on a skating benefit "Lacing up for Leukemia" encouraging readers to put their love of skating to good causes.) Nonfiction, including first-person.

SKIPPING STONES: P.O. Box 3939, Eugene, Oregon 97403-0939. www.skippingstones.org. Multi-cultural and ecologically aware publication in its 16th year, addresses social issues, international understanding and cultural celebrations for readers age 8 to 17. Article topics include community service, family relationships, living abroad, and subjects that make a positive difference in the world, particularly: understanding nature, specific natural areas or species; conservation of resources; and variety of subjects on country, culture and community. Fiction includes multicultural, ethnic, inspirational, folktales, and humor. No payment, so recommended only as an outlet for unpublished writers, both children and adults. Send mss and cover letter to editor@Skipping-Stones.org.

SLAP and THRASHER: High Speed Productions, 1303 Underwood Ave., San Francisco, CA 94124. www.slapmagazine.com; www.thrashermagazine.com. Editor Mark Whitely wants short reviews of new rock bands and skate parks submittes with visual images. TIP: Know the skateboarder attitude, interests, current issues, and jargon for true authenticity. "Most contributors start out with something small, such as a music or video review, possibly a one-page skateboard-related story," says Whitely who prefers first-person accounts for the magazines nonfiction features. Caveat: difficult for photographers to break in.

SPIDER: P.O. Box 300, Peru, IL 61354. www.spidermag.com. Cricket Magazine Group’s ‘zine for ages 6-9 seeks stories 300-1,000 words inc. folk and fairy tales, sci-fi, and easy-to-read. Nonfiction articles 300-800 words on such subjects as science, animals, technology and history. Also: poems to 20 lines, brainteasers, games, recipes, crafts, activities, and puzzles. Send mss. and bibliography for nonfiction to: Submissions Editor. Buys all rights and second North American publication rights. Pays up to 24 cents per word for stories and articles; up to $3 per line for poetry. Art by assignment only; send samples to Ron McCutchan, Senior Art Director.

SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FOR KIDS: 135 W. 50th Ste., NY NY 10020-1393. www.sikids.com. Monthly for kids 8-15 seeks special interviews with pro and amateur athletes, and, especially, fun puzzle items for its Games section. Query with original, unusual ideas and clips to editor of sport you’re pitching: Ellen Cosgrove (basketball), Nick Friedman (soccer and youth athletes), Michael Northrop (baseball, hockey, and "Puzzles & Games"), Justin Tejada (football and action sports) c/o firstname_lastname@timeinc.com. Buys all rights. Pays $1 per word and up.

STORY FRIENDS: 616 Walnut Ave., Scottsdale, PA 15683-1999. www.mph.org. General interest ’zine for ages 4-9 from Mennonite Publishing House. Editor Susan Reith Swan seeks stories from POV of child protagonist who solves her own problem without preaching. Also: stories about lesser holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day; multicultural fiction. Buys one-time rights. Pays 3 cents per word. Stories to 800 words; articles to 300 words.

SUPERSCIENCE: Scholastic Inc., 555 Broadway, NY, NY 10012. www.scholastic.com. Classroom magazine with science news stories for middle-grade students features informational and how-to articles, personal experience pieces, hands-on activities, and experiments. Topics include earth, physical and life sciences; technology; and chemistry. Sr. Editor Patricia Janes says she’s "always looking for both seasoned writers and emerging talent. Writers must feel comfortable with science subjects and feel confident interviewing scientists." Publishes eight times a year. Articles: 300-1,000 words. Buys all rights. Payment varies. Queries only with resume, clips, area of interest and expertise, to: Libby Tucker.

TEEN PEOPLE.COM: 1271 Avenue of the Americas, NY, NY 10020. www.teenpeople.com.

TEENS ON TARGET / YOUTH CHALLENGE: Word Aflame Publications, 8855 Dunn Rd., Hazelwood, MO 63042-2299. www.upci.org/wap. Articles and filler with long shelf-life being accepted for two Pentecostal publications. Teens On Target editorial designer Lisa Henson wants Christian fiction, puzzles, games and some nonfiction for 12-14 year olds. Youth Challenge features inspirational stories and non-fiction for ages 15-17, but has no immediate editorial needs; stories are being accepted for future publication. 100% freelance written. Query by mail, or e-mail to wap@upci.org. Buys first or one-time rights. Pays on publication. Payment varies.

TEEN VOGUE: 4 Times Square, NY, NY 10036. www.teenvogue.com Younger, digest spin-off of top women’s fashion magazine remains more "Vogue" than "teen" in a crowded girls magazine market. Editors seek features about real girls, with its first-person "My World" stories and features that cull advice and information from both experts and actual teens. Also: health features including responsible ariticles about sex. Purchases six freelance stories per issue. Pays $1 per word upon publication. Target magazine section, then submit relevant queries with your publishing history by email to section editor (firstname_lastname@teenvogue.com). Reply in two weeks. Thereafter "feel free to follow up by email."

TURTLE: Children’s Better Health Institute, 1100 Waterway Blvd., P.O. Box 567, Indianapolis, IN 46206. www.turtlemag.org. Editor Terry Harshman is accepting non-fiction, poetry and rebus submissions for ages 2-5. Harshman says that writers’ best bets are to send "fun articles with a health and fitness focus, and anything to do with science or medicine." They also publish easy recipes, simple science experiments, mazes, matching activities, coloring pages and hidden pictures. Buys all rights. Pays to 25 cents per word; payment varies for poetry and activities.

U.S. KIDS MAGAZINE: P.O. Box 567, Indianapolis, IN 46206. www.cbhi.org/magazines/uskids/index.shtml. Editor Daniel Lee seeks profiles of kids doing heroic or exemplary things. For grades 2-3 reading level; up to 400 words. Magazine is overstocked with fiction and poetry, so is not accepting submissions in those areas. Pays minimum of 25 cents per word upon publications. Buys all rights. Writers guidelines on website.

WEE ONES E-MAGAZINE: 1321 Ridge Road, Baltimore, MD 21228. www.weeonesmag.com. Webzine for children ages 3-8 and their parents is accepting lively read-aloud stories of 150-500 words that entertain and educate; most topics but religion. Also seeks nonfiction on animals, arts/crafts, math, nature, puzzles, science and cooking. Articles up to 700 words also needed for companion site, Big Ones, geared toward parents. Buys first electronic rights, pays 3 cents per word, $5 for poems. Email submissions only to Editor Jennifer Reed: submissions@weeonesmag.com.

WHAT: 108-93 Lombard Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba R2B1, Canada. www.whatmagnet.com Canadian teen pop culture and entertainment webzine seeks hip, edgy entertainment features and star interviews. TIP: New writers welcome. Query or request guidelines w/ SASE (w/ IRC) by mail or email to Editor Barbara Chabai at b.chabai@m2ci.mb.ca. Buys first Canadian rights. Pays $75 (CDN) for 450 words/ half-page; $150 for full-ages; $250 and up for full features 2-3 pages.

WINNER: 55 West Oak Ridge Dr., Hagerstown, MD 21740. www.winnermagazine.org. Positive lifestyle magazine for grades 4-6 stressing drug prevention seeks realistic stories with solutions to everyday social challenges of family issues, sports, peer pressure, tobacco, drug and alcohol abuses, and social issues. TIP: Editor Anita Jacobs loves surprise endings, hates preaching. No sci-fi or fantasy. Submissions should include at least three questions relating to the story and an activity or puzzle. Query with clips or writing samples. Email to Winner@healthconnection.com or mail to editor. Pay varies. Publishes 9 times per year.

YES MAG: 3968 Long Gun Pl., Victoria, BC V8N 3A9 Canada. www.yesmag.ca. Canada’s Science Magazine for Kids seeks informative articles, interviews, and experiments for ages 8 to 14. Managing editor Jude Isabella seeks queries re: topics in physics, chemistry, mathematics, technology, environmental news, and other hard science subjects. TIP: "It’s often easier to find space in the non-theme related sections, such as Science and Technology Watch." Query to editor@yesmag.ca. Pays 20 cents (Canadian) per word.

YOUNG RIDER: P.O. Box 8237, Lexington, KY 40533. www.youngrider.com. Provides information for ages 6 to 14 on how to look after horses and safely improve their riding skills. Editor Lesley Ward wants "horsey interest stories with tack-sharp images, horse and rider celebrities, and young riders who have achieved something interesting." Also: modern, realistic, and humorous short fiction involving horses and riding. No poems or first-person stories about overcoming odds to win at shows or to get their own horse. Horse care and riding features are done in-house. Query to Editor. Pays $250 for 1,000-1,500 words.

YOUTHWEEKLY.COM: 8959 Elk Grove Florin Road, Suite 102, #188, Sacramento, CA 95829. www.youthweekly.homestead.com. On-line ‘zine features fiction, nonfiction and poetry for middle-grade and YA. Seeks short stories to 3,000 words, nonfiction also to 3,000 words, including sidebars and activities. Also poetry. Photos a plus. Submit mss. by mail or email to submissions@youthweekly.net. Buys one-time electronic rights at $2 per piece.

Copyright 2005, by Vicki Arkoff. May not be reproduced or republished without express permission of the author. varkoff@yahoo.com for publishing inquiries.

CARUS MAGAZINE GROUP
APPLESEEDS - general social studies for ages 6 - 9
ASK - investigation and discovery for ages 6 – 9 NOT ACCEPTING UNSOLICITED MSS.
BABYBUG - listening and learning for toddlers and preschoolers
CALLIOPE - world history for ages 9 - 14
CICADA - literary zine for teens: original short stories, poems, reprints & first-person essays. Bi-monthly.
CLICK - investigation and discovery for ages 3 – 7 EXPERIENCED SCIENCE WRITERS ONLY
COBBLESTONE - American history for ages 9 - 14
CRICKET - award-winning fiction for ages 9 – 14 written by the world's best authors for children. Monthly.
DIG - archaeology for ages 9 - 14
FACES - world cultures and geography for ages 9 – 14. Theme issues.
FOOTSTEPS - African American history for ages 9 - 14
LADYBUG – original stories and poems for ages 2 – 7 Monthly.
MUSE - investigation and discovery for ages 9 – 14 NOT ACCEPTING UNSOLICITED MSS.
ODYSSEY - science for ages 9 - 14
SPIDER - original stories, poems, reprints, articles and activities for ages 6 – 9
For complete WRITERS GUIDELINES including THEME ISSUE details: http://www.cricketmag.com/pages_content.asp?page_id=6

VICKI ARKOFF is Entertainment Editor for SWEET 16 magazine with nearly a million tween and teen readers, and GUIDEPOSTS FOR KIDS. She’s also a contributing editor for NICKELODEON MAGAZINE, KIRKUS REVIEWS and THE MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW. Other magazine credits include: Daily Variety, Entertainment Weekly, Movieline, Disney Adventures, Girlfriend, Sugar, Los Angeles, L.A. Weekly, Creem, and Pacific Publications/News Corps. as Bureau Chief for 10 top-market international magazines.

As a book editor & author, her titles include the bestseller "Sinatra" (DK/Penguin), "Orange County Choppers: Dynamite Designs" (Discovery Channel/Modern), and "Children’s Literature Review: Vol. 100" (Thomson-Gale). She's an authorized biographer for Beastie Boys, Hilary Duff, Duran Duran. Paul McCartney, Megadeth, M.C. Hammer, Bonnie Raitt, Raven, Radiohead, Tina Turner and other cultural icons. Awards include the 2004 SCBWI-Los Angeles "Best Nonfiction" award for her Hilary Duff bio, since published as a Disney DVD reaching multiplatinum sales.

Copyright 2005, by Vicki Arkoff. May not be reproduced or republished without express permission of the author. varkoff@yahoo.com for publishing inquiries.