Callaloo Call for Readers and Reviewers

Callaloo is currently seeking readers and reviewers to evaluate submissions. This is a great opportunity to hone your critical skills in assessing poetry, fiction, and essays from up and coming Black voices from across the African Diaspora.

To apply email info@callalooliteraryjournal.com with a short cover letter expressing why you are interested in reading for Callaloo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still submit my own work if I’m a reader?

Absolutely. Reading for us will not impact your ability to submit your own work. You are not, however, allowed to review your own work, for obvious reasons.

What are the benefits of being a reader for  Callaloo?

There is almost no better training for a writer than being a reader for a literary journal. For writers and scholars alike, it will absolutely help the development of your own work—specifically your discernment and ability to quickly assess pieces. Reading for Callaloo is a great way to learn how our review process works, familiarize yourself with the submission software, and get a sense of the types of pieces we tend to accept. Gaining some visibility into the variety, submission volume, and labor done by staff to manage the submission process will give you valuable insights into your own submissions. As you gain experience, your ability to grasp the tone of different journals will make your own submission processes clearer, quicker, and more successful. Not to mention, you’ll have the opportunity to help shape a historic legacy publication.

What is the workload?

Readers may review the submissions on their own schedules. Our preference is that readers  should be prepared to commit 2–5 hours per week, but you can let us know what volume of work is appropriate for you. If your availability suddenly changes, please update the Managing Editor at your earliest convenience. 

Will I be paid?

For now, our readers are on a purely volunteer basis.   We are looking for ways to compensate people in the future, so stay tuned!