Random Sample is an online journal of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They’re looking for quality writing that expresses the human experience in a unique and accessible way. They want, “work that is decidedly and unabashedly human.” To get a sense of what they publish, you can read the journal online.
Random Sample has been published since 2015, and they currently publish two issues each year. They’ve only published seven issues total, though, because originally they didn’t publish in that form. Each edition contains writing from around 20 contributors. Some issues are themed, but most are not. For example, the most recent edition is themed “Follow Your Joy.”
Random Sample accepts submissions year-round, though they provide cut-off dates for consideration in specific issues. Right now through November 15 they’re accepting submissions for Issue 8. They will remain open to submissions after November 15, just not for Issue 8. Also note that they read submissions most consistently during the summer and winter, before publishing a new issue. Response times could be faster during these months.
Poets may submit up to five poems. Authors of prose (fiction and nonfiction) may submit one story, 7,000 words or fewer. Authors of flash writing may submit up to three pieces, 1,000 words or fewer each. They also publish hybrid writing, which can be submitted in either category. Random Sample aims to respond to all submissions within six months.
Random Sample also offers a special opportunity for young writers. Authors under 20 years of age can submit to the Random Young Writers Series. The young authors selected will work closely with editors at Random Sample to polish their writing, which will be published alongside other emerging and established authors in the journal.
Random Sample does accept previously published work, although they prefer unpublished writing. They do not accept multiple submissions and ask that authors wait at least three months from receiving a response before submitting again.
Random Sample accepts submissions online using Google Forms, not via email or by post. They accept simultaneous submissions but ask that authors withdraw work published elsewhere.
Random Sample only accepts submissions that follow the guidelines they’ve posted online. Please read these guidelines before submitting.
If you’d like to learn more or submit to Random Sample, please visit their website here.
Bio: Ella Peary is the pen name for an author, editor, creative writing mentor, and submission consultant. Over the past five years, she’s written hundreds of articles for Authors Publish, and she’s also served as a copywriter and copy editor for a wide range of organizations and individuals. She is the author of The Quick Start Guide to Flash Fiction. She occasionally teaches a course on flash fiction. You can contact her at ellapeary@gmail.com.
