Readers Write
Readers Write is a feature in The Sun where readers share their personal writing on a given topic—a unique fixture of the magazine since the section’s inception in 1978. Send us your true story on an upcoming topic, and if we publish it you’ll receive a complimentary one-year subscription.
Not sure what to write? See below for some prompts to spark an idea. Writing style isn’t as important as thoughtfulness and sincerity, and topics are intentionally broad to give room for expression and interpretation.
Read a sample Readers Write section here
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Timing
Due May 1, 2024
They say timing is everything, and we want your true stories that prove it. Did you meet a special someone at just the right (or wrong) moment? Ever make or miss a travel connection that had unexpected consequences? Would you have avoided a fight or lost out on an opportunity if you’d shown up a minute later? Don’t miss the deadline: send us your submissions about serendipitous or unlucky timing by May 1.
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Luxuries
Due June 1, 2024
Could be those cherries in the fancy stoneware jar that are three times the cost of the store brand. Maybe it’s the seat on the airplane with extra legroom and complimentary booze. Or perhaps it’s something else entirely: a remote spot in the woods, or running water, or a quiet moment to yourself. What’s the luxury that makes you feel like you’re getting away with something? What didn’t you grow up with that you always pined for? What’s the thing you really, truly want, for which there’s no ad campaign or celebrity endorsement? Send us your true story on “Luxuries” by June 1.
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Submit to Readers Write Authors selected for publication receive a free one-year subscription to The Sun. Submit Online
Guidelines
Length
We do not have a set word limit for Readers Write submissions. Most pieces that we publish come to us at around 300 to 1,000 words. But we have published some Readers Write pieces that are just a few sentences long, and we have edited some down from many pages.
Formatting
We prefer manuscripts in any legible 12-point font with double-spaced paragraphs, page numbers in the footer, and 1-inch margins.
On page 1 please include the author’s name and the Readers Write topic.
While we appreciate careful proofreading, we don’t disqualify submissions for formatting inconsistencies or typos. Please don’t withdraw and resubmit just because you spot a mistake.
FAQ
How to Submit
We consider submissions online via Submittable.
There is no fee to submit to Readers Write.
We do not consider submissions via email.
To submit by mail, send your typed or neatly handwritten manuscript to:
Readers Write
The Sun
109 N. Roberson St.
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
We cannot return mailed Readers Write manuscripts.
Response Time
We notify writers of our decisions within six months of each topic deadline.
Submission Status
You can check on the status of your online submission by logging into Submittable.
Withdrawing a Submission
You can withdraw your online submission from consideration via Submittable.
Payment
Complimentary one-year subscription.
Rights
We request one-time rights. All other rights revert to the author upon publication.
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