Anthology: Neurodivergent People & Animals (estimated publication date December 2026)
Autistic individuals (and other neurodivergent people) have strong relationships with animals. For many of us, our animals are often the only beings who accept us unconditionally, without making demands, or asking that we mask to adapt to a neurotypical society. This anthology celebrates our unique relationship with animals. Come laugh, smile, cry, and grieve with us as we experience the full range of our relationship with the animals in our lives.
What we are looking for
Nonfiction essays that talk about own voices/lived experience of being neurodivergent and our relationship with animals. While this anthology can cover any aspect of pet ownership, we ask that it not include distressing details of animal abuse or mistreatment. (It’s okay to say you rescued your pet from a bad situation, just not go into details about just how bad it was.)
What we’d like to avoid: We’re looking for an upbeat and informative anthology, so while death is a part of sharing our lives with animals that live far shorter lives than we do, we’re hoping for stories that are more celebratory than sad.
Length: 1000-8000 words.
Reprints? Original works preferred. Reprints may be considered if the story has been out of print for at least three years and has not been available elsewhere.
NO Generative AI WRITTEN or PROMPTED WORKS!
No simultaneous submissions and no multiple submissions. Authors, please only send one story.
Rights and usage
Epona Muse Publishing requests the exclusive rights to publish the story in print and ebook for one full year after publication. Beyond that, the anthology will remain in print for a minimum of 2 years, and then the publisher reserves the right to retire the anthology. The story can be reprinted/republished after the first year of exclusivity. We will also ask for audio rights for the short story (nonexclusive). We will not ask for any other rights or the rights to any subsequent/related works. Any questions, please ask!
Payment: Authors will receive royalties based upon their share of 70% of the royalties received from each sale. The remaining 30% remains with the publisher to cover costs associated with the anthology. Royalties are split equally among contributor and the publisher reserves the right to use PubShare to distribute royalties, which unfortunately does take an additional 10% (leaving 60% for the authors). If you have any strong feelings either way, please indicate so in the cover letter.
Other requirements: It is suggested that authors share the anthology in their newsletter (if applicable) and on social media at least once a month. Remember a rising tide lifts all boats.
Authors will sign a publication agreement outlining the responsibilities of both publisher and author. A W9/W8 (non-US authors) will be required for tax purposes.
Due dates and how to submit
Submissions are due by Wednesday, September 30, 2026
To submit please use the form on our website and decisions will be made within 30 days of the submission period closing (so by October 31 at the latest).
Anticipated publication date is December 2026.
If you have any questions, please contact us. Thank you.