Paper Lanterns Literary Journal: Issue One

Hi all!

Today I have a really exciting post! Today is the launch of a new literary journal aimed at teen and YA readers, including creative writing pieces, reviews, art, interviews and much more!

Below is the stunning cover of the first issue and a bit about who Paper Lanterns are and what it’s all about from the founders themselves—the wonderful Grace, Ruth and Amy!

Paper Lanterns Issue 1 Cover — **Artwork “la gente es colorida” by Allie Rafferty, designed by Fiachra Johnston.**

Paper Lanterns white on black — Design by Eleanor Brayden

Paper Lanterns is a new literary journal, founded in 2020 by Grace Kelley, Ruth Ennis and Amy O’Sullivan, to be published four times a year. Acting as a platform to promote the voices of young people in Ireland and across the world, this journal provides new and exciting content for a teen and young adult audience. It is also perfect for enthusiasts of teen and YA literature; from teachers and librarians, to parents and youth workers.

The journal is divided into three sections. Our Creative Writing section showcases work from talented teens, as well as work from adult writers of teen and YA literature, tied in with beautiful artwork and photography. The Features and Articles section includes unique essays on trends in the YA literary scene and inspiring observations from our younger contributors on the world around them. You can also expect some exciting interviews from authors and literature enthusiasts. Our Reviews sections offers an insight to the latest books for teens and young adults, from readers younger and older, with a helpful guide to aid in navigating suitable content. You will also find details of our seasonal book club, where we discuss a book for older teens and a book for younger teens on our social media and on Goodreads.

The launch of Issue One will be taking place online on Paper Lantern’s social media channels, 7pm on Wednesday the 22nd of April. There will be an introduction from the journal’s co-founders, Grace, Amy and Ruth, followed by several contributors reading their work. The launch also marks the opening of submissions for Issue Two.