Micro-fiction, postcard fiction, flash fiction: whatever you call it, it's a distinct genre and it has its own markets. These places publish stories under 1,000 words.

Flash fiction is enjoying an increase in popularity, and there are a number of high-quality websites dedicated exclusively to the genre. Whether you're ready to submit, or simply looking for some good places to read micro-fiction, these resources will give you an idea of what's out there. Notice that different markets define the genre differently in terms of word count, narrative style, and subject matter, so be sure to check out each publication carefully before you submit.

Vestal Review

Vestal Review is devoted entirely to flash fiction, which they refer to as an “underrepresented form of fiction.” It's an eclectic quarterly online journal and semi-annual print journal. They define flash fiction as a story under 500 words, with plot. The stories they publish are fairly literary, as opposed to genre fiction. Each online issue features four stories, and they pay 3-10 cents a word, depending on the length of the piece, plus a contributor's copy.

SmokeLong Quarterly

The name 'SmokeLong' comes from the idea that you can read a piece of flash fiction in the time it takes to smoke a cigarette. This journal is devoted exclusively to micro fiction, and accepts stories up to 1,000 words, with a preference for stories in the 400-700 range. SmokeLong publishes online four times a year, and release an annual flash fiction anthology. Unfortunately this is a non-paying market, but it's a good place to start getting your writing out there. They encourage unpublished writers to submit.

Flashquake

This sedate, literary online quarterly is 'dedicated to publishing the best flash literature.' The quality of the writing is high and the well-designed site makes reading a pleasure. Every year, Flashquake editors nominate some of their writers for the Pushcart Prize, a substantial American literary award. Flashquake accepts fiction and nonfiction submissions under 1,000 words, and prefers even shorter pieces. They also publish poetry under 35 lines. They pay a stipend to every contributor. Make sure to check the submission guidelines carefully, as the editors have specific reading periods and deadlines for each issue.

Brevity

If you are working on a mini-memoir or nonfiction piece, consider submitting to Brevity, the online journal affiliated with the Creative Nonfiction website. They publish true, narrative stories that are 750 words or less. Many of their stories are written by accomplished and well-known writers, but they will publish new writers if the quality is there. For more information on what creative nonfiction is, look here.

Flash fiction contests

Writers' Union of Canada Postcard Story Contest

First prize $500. Entry fee $5, maximum 250 words.

Next deadline Feb 14th 2008

Geist Literal Literary Postcard Story Contest

First prize $250. Entry fee $20, includes a one year subscription to Geist. Storis, maximum 500 words, must relate to the image on an actual postcard you choose and include with your submission.

Next deadline December 2008.

Women on Writing Flash Fiction Contest

First prize $200. Entry fee $5, online entry. Min 250 words, max 500.

Next deadline Feb 28, 2008