If literary publications are concerned about their future, they might do well to assess what they are doing to fuel the creative interests of the next generation, as evidenced by Apotheca Journal, a monthly online publication showcasing poetry, short stories, novel excerpts, creative non-fiction, photography, artwork, and more by contributors aged 14-22.
Founder and Editor Ann Sproul explains how one experience encouraged her to launch a literary magazine, “When I was in seventh grade, I received my first writing award: publication and a $1,000 scholarship from Bluefire Journal. The whole experience really raised my confidence not only as a writer but as a person. Ever since then, I have wanted to edit for a magazine. The world needs young writers and artists who realize that their voice is valuable. Those are the people who are going to grow up and be unapologetic for what they have to say. It can be difficult for young writers and artists since the majority of magazines are for adults. Through Apotheca, I am hoping to afford other young writers and artists the same confidence I felt when I was first published.”