Six Questions for Justin Bendell and Kristian Macaron, Editors, Manzano Mountain Review

Manzano Mountain Review publishes prose to 3,000 words, flash fiction, poetry, visual art, and photography. Read the complete guidelines here.

SQF: Why did you start this magazine?

MMR: We wanted to build literary culture and awareness in New Mexico outside the typical centers.


SQF: What are the top three things you look for in a submission and why?

MMR: Fresh language; curiosity/perceptivity; attentiveness to editing requirements


SQF: What most often turns you off to a submission?

MMR: Cliches; General sloppiness; Stories that start in a dorm room and end at a campus bar.


SQF: What do you look for in the opening paragraphs/stanzas of a submission?

MMR: Wow moments; captivating language; rhythm; movement, in media res;


SQF: If Manzano Mountain Review had a theme song, what would it be and why?

MMR: I'd be surprised if the editors could agree on a theme song for the journal. If Justin could pick a theme album for MMR, it would be Manu Chao's Clandestino.


SQF: What one question on this topic do you wish I'd asked that I didn't? And how would you answer it?

MMR: N/A

Thank you, Justin and Kristian. We all appreciate you taking time from your busy schedule to participate in this project.