Book and Bottle Shop looking for authors as they launch literary magazine, “By the Glass”

The Book and Bottle Shop in Hopkinsville is putting out the call—they’re looking for writers from across western Kentucky to feature in their first-ever literary magazine, “By the Glass”.

According to a news release, this new literary magazine is designed to showcase what western Kentucky has to offer in the way of writing prowess. Submissions are open now for the premier issue of “By the Glass”, which is founded by the Draft & Drink Writers Group of the bookstore/wine bar that calls downtown Hopkinsville home. 

There are very few restrictions on submissions, though it is encouraged for the submitter to be connected to western Kentucky—authors can submit works of original and unpublished fiction, nonfiction, poetry and other literary prose. For this first magazine, there is not a theme or content recommendation. 

Interested parties are encouraged to take an existing and unpublished piece that they are proud of and that exemplifies their skill as a writer, polish it, and submit it. Submissions are available online only at thebookandbottleshop.com/bytheglass through April 1.

Editor in Chief and Book and Bottle Shop owner Rachel Sanders says, “There are many literary journals and magazines based throughout the state, though most are associated with universities or other educational establishments. Our goal is not to duplicate or encroach on the existing publications, but instead to create a supplementation and expansion specific to our region of the state.” 

The issue, once pieces are chosen, will be released in the spring of 2026 in both print and online formats, with the official release date to be announced at a later date.