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The 2024 Pushcart Prize anthology

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Dear Contributing Writers and Readers:

…..The Pushcart Prize is described by the New York Times as “a distinguished annual literary event” that is, in the opinion of Kirkus Reviews, “must reading for anyone interested in the present and future of America’s arts and letters.”

…..Established in 1976 by Bill Henderson – who still serves as its editor and publisher – the Pushcart Prize was founded to recognize and celebrate the best work published by independent publishers during the calendar year.  Over the years, thousands of writers have been honored, nominated by hundreds of small press publishers.

…..I am pleased to report that I have nominated the maximum-allowed six writers for this esteemed award – version XLVIII –  whose work appeared on the pages of Jerry Jazz Musician during 2023.   They are:

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“If I Were a Monarch Butterfly,” a poem by Mary K. O’Melveny

“Mr. P.C.,” a short story by Jacob Schrodt

“What We Talk About When We Talk About Kind of Blue,” a poem by Douglas Cole

“Company,” a short story by Anastasia Jill

“Song of the Poplar Tree,” a poem by Jerrice J. Baptiste

“The New Orleans That I Know,” a poem by Connie Johnson

 

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…..Selecting six writers from among the hundreds of authors and poets whose work has been published on Jerry Jazz Musician this year is no small task, and it is not taken lightly.  Serious consideration is given to countless worthy writers.  The six chosen represent everyone who has contributed to this growing community, one that I humbly submit is the most vibrant and relevant anywhere in the world whose mission is to connect jazz music and its culture to a literary appreciation of it.

…..Congratulations to the six nominees, and thanks to the many writers whose enthusiasm for sharing their work with interested readers makes this community possible.

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…..Here are the nominees from last year’s Pushcart competition:

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“His Second Instrument” – a short story by Dave Wakely

“Thrush” – a short story by Owen Duffy

“Equal” – a short story by Chris Simpson

“My Country” – a poem by Erren Kelly

“Blame It On My Youth” – a poem by Tim Tomlinson

“Supper Club” – a poem by Molly Larson Cook

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Sincerely,

Joe Maita

Editor/Publisher/Founder

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(To visit the Pushcart website, click here).

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Click here for information on how to submit a poem or short story to Jerry Jazz Musician

Click here to subscribe to the Jerry Jazz Musician quarterly newsletter (it’s free)

Click here to help support the continuing publication of Jerry Jazz Musician, and to keep it commercial and ad-free (thank you!)

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Jerry Jazz Musician…human produced (and AI-free) since 1999

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