What what? The Summer 2009 issue of CALYX: A Journal of Art and Literature by Women is available! This issue contains my first published realism, a short story called “Ashes.”

How do I get it? CALYX is a well-distributed literary magazine, available at many independent and feminist bookstores. I’m told that city newsstands often carry it, and some B&N and Borders locations. Call ahead! (And leave a comment when you see it somewhere!) In Portland I have seen it on the shelves of Powell’s City of Books although neither their website nor their phone operators can confirm its presence. Annie Bloom’s Books, which is also hosting the reading in September, carries it.

I’m looking into whether you can buy it directly from Calyx Press, which might be a good online or order-by-phone option.

What am I looking for?

What am I getting? CALYX is a $10 semi-annual journal. This is Volume 25, number 2, the 33rd Anniversary Issue. It has a full-color insert of art from six artists working in various media, and over 100 pages of poetry, nonfiction, fiction and book reviews. This particular issue happens to contain the work of four current or past students of the Pacific University MFA in Writing program: poetry by Helen Pucilowski and Abby Murray, and nonfiction by Leslie What. Calyx comes recommended by lights like Ursula Le Guin and Barbara Kingsolver. How’s that for friends in high places?

Why am I running out madly to buy this? It’s true, I’m not the boss of you. However, my story contains 80’s-tacular touches such as wooly tights and a Gremlins lunchbox. And at least one of my friends says that while the story is realistic, it’s still a little weird. My sister says she enjoyed CALYX so much she thinks she’ll subscribe. With those recommendations, why wouldn’t you?

Update, 8/6/09: The Summer issue is now available for purchase on Calyx Press’s website!