Chapbook Contest

For complete eligibility requirements, contest guidelines, and procedures, visit the Michigan Writers Submittable page.

Submission for the 2027 chapbook contest close midnight on December 1, 2026.

Michigan Writers Cooperative Press

Since 2005, the Michigan Writers Cooperative Press has helped emerging writers of poetry, short stories and creative nonfiction by publishing their first book in a literary genre by a reputable press.

As part of this cooperative venture, authors share with the Cooperative Press the responsibility for marketing the chapbooks, which are sold at Michigan Writers events, online, and in bookstores and retailers.

Chapbook Contest

Each year the Michigan Writers Cooperative Press publishes winners of our Chapbook contest. Poetry, works of fiction, and works of creative nonfiction will be considered. Selections are based on literary merit, not genre. In past years, MWCP has published up to three winners each year.

The MWCP chapbook contest is only open to members of Michigan Writers, Inc. who have not previously published a full-length book in a literary genre. To join Michigan Writers, visit our Membership page.

For complete eligibility requirements, contest guidelines, and procedures, visit the Michigan Writers Submittable page. The 2027 chapbook contest will open September 1, 2026, and close midnight on December 1, 2026.

For more information, contact us at chapbooks@michwriters.org.

2026 Chapbooks Available

Congratulations to our 2026 Chapbook competition winners:
Blue Prairie of Darkness by Jan Mordenski
Fault Lines by Timothy Smith
Squirrel Daycare by April DeOliveira

A limited number of chapbooks are still available to purchase through Michigan Writers at $12 each or $30 for a bundle of all three. You can place an order by emailing your request and contact information to: treasurer@michwriters.org. You will receive an online invoice and payment link. Orders will be sent by US Mail or available for pick-up in Traverse City. Shipping charge is $5, book rate. Order only at treasurer@michwriters.org.