Founded in 2025 by the MFA Program in Creative Writing at Georgia College & State University, Peach is an annual literary journal publishing singular works of poetry and prose: distinct in vision and voice, in discovery and invention; work that lives on the page and endures beyond it. We seek writing that is, in a word, fresh.
Published annually, Peach is shaped by thoughtful reading and collaborative table reads, guided by multiple perspectives with one aim: to publish the finest work we receive. We do not accept simultaneous submissions, allowing every piece the focused attention it deserves while ensuring timely responses. We offer fair compensation to our contributors and welcome work from writers of every background, identity, and perspective.
Peach welcomes submissions of poetry and prose from writers at every stage of their careers. All work must be original, previously unpublished, and not under consideration elsewhere. Because we do not accept simultaneous submissions, each piece receives our full attention and timely response.
Submit up to four poems, with each poem beginning on a new page. Poetry may be single-spaced in a single .doc, .docx, or .pdf file. Omit all identifying information from the manuscript.
Submit one piece of fiction or nonfiction, up to 5,000 words (regular) or 7,500 words (prize). All prose must be double-spaced with numbered pages in a single .doc, .docx, or .pdf file. Begin on page one with the title centered at the top. Omit all identifying information from the manuscript.
We aim to respond within six weeks. If you haven’t heard from us, your submission remains under consideration. Please include a brief cover letter stating [PROSE ONLY: your submission genre (fiction or nonfiction)] and any other relevant information. While Peach does not consider simultaneous submissions, if you need to reach us regarding a previously submitted manuscript, please contact managingeditor.peach@gcsu.edu.
In recognition of contributor work, Peach offers the following upon publication:
Named in honor of the Iranian-American writer and editor Susan Atefat (1970–2004), this prize celebrates work of uncommon vision and craft. A cross-genre artist and distinguished editor, Atefat’s writing, most notably her National Poetry Series collection That Kind of Sleep, stands as a benchmark of literary excellence: courageous, lyrical, and rooted in a profound exploration of family, heritage, and the diasporic experience.
While not a themed prize, the award is given in her spirit to recognize a writer whose work embodies the same clarity, depth, and imaginative reach that defined Atefat’s own. We seek submissions that reveal mastery of language, integrity of feeling, and a voice both personal and enduring.
The Susan Atefat Editor’s Prize alternates genres by issue year: poetry in odd-numbered years (for example, 2027 and 2029) and prose in even-numbered years (for example, 2028 and 2030). Submissions for each prize are read during the preceding fall. For example, work considered for the 2027 poetry prize will be read in fall 2026.
The winner, selected by the Peach editors, receives $4,000 and publication in Peach.
Each spring, Peach releases one podcast episode and one written interview featuring contributors from the current issue. These companion pieces appear on our website alongside a curated selection of work from the print journal.
Contributors whose work is accepted may be invited to participate in either the podcast or the written interview. Participation is optional and coordinated after acceptance.