Root & Star is a thoughtfully curated, high-quality literary magazine for children. Each gorgeously designed print volume provides children, parents, and authors with a space to honor the sacredness of childhood.

Root & Star is seeking beautifully crafted poetry, fiction, and nonfiction to nourish the whole child: “the wise, the wild, the strange, and the sweet.” They aren’t necessarily looking for writing produced for children; rather, they’re looking for outstanding literature that appeals to children and parents alike. You can get a sense of their style by browsing a sample issue here.

Root & Star is published six times a year in print, and they accept submissions year-round. They are looking for work that captures the attention of children, three to six years old.

Their issues are themed, and they provide a list of upcoming themes and corresponding submission deadlines on their website. Right now, they’re seeking submissions on the following themes: rainbows (deadline January 31), water (deadline March 31), home (deadline May 30), and circles (deadline July 31).

Although much of the work they publish connects with a theme, they also publish pieces on other topics and they always accept unthemed submissions. Overall, they don’t want to limit authors; rather, they want to inspire authors to play, create, and share the complexities of their work.

To that end, they also provide a list of frequent features to help authors generate imaginative new material. Some highlights include: illustrated quote, true story, fable, visual encyclopedia, and home portrait.

Root & Star accepts submissions online, not via email or by post.

If you would like to learn more or submit to Root & Star, please visit their website here.