Rhiza Shorts will be open for submissions in November 2025. Manuscripts do not need to be completed in order to pitch (we require just a two-page synopsis plus the first two chapters).
We aim to publish relatable, issue-based stories for today's young adult readers, ranging from books with a light, humorous touch through to deeper, more challenging tales. As an independent publisher, we love to find those unique stories that connect us all.
We strongly recommend that you have read the types of books we publish before submitting a manuscript. Reading our recommended titles will ensure a higher chance of the right manuscript being pitched.
How to make a pitch:
To submit a pitch you will need to include:
- A full 2-page synopsis.
- A maximum of 1500 words of your first two chapters. We do not want a full manuscript. All Rhiza Shorts manuscripts are formed in writing critique groups and if your idea and writing style is confirmed we will coach you through the first books.
- Your full return details (i.e. name, address). These must also be included on the pages of your manuscript.
- Any specific marketing plans for your manuscript is recommended.
- Which Rhiza Shorts you have already read. We do recommend you have read all of them as they are our first group!
Submissions will be open with a link at this location in November 2025 only. Multiple submission pitch ideas welcome. Not every idea will suit a shorts so put in as many ideas as you like!
Young Adult Fiction for the Rhiza Shorts list - What we are looking for:
Length: 15 000 to 22 000 words
We want YA stories that are:
- Relatable and real-life
- Focused on the challenges teens face
- Ultimately hopeful
- Engaging and thought-provoking
- Good reads, not focused on any political agenda or any diadactic messages. If there is a theme of something like this make sure it is not the main focus of the story. These stories are desgined to be good reads for anyone and about enjoying reading more than anything else.
Please note: We will not accept submissions with explicit violence, sex scenes, horror or excessive swearing.