STEUBENVILLE, OH— In August, Franciscan University Press will accept book-length manuscripts for the Jacopone da Todi Poetry series, which provides an alternative publishing opportunity to poets writing on overtly Christian themes.

“We want work that reflects a disciple’s heart,” says Dr. David Craig, Franciscan University English professor and series editor.

Starting August 1 and closing August 31, any poet age 18 or older writing primarily in English, may submit a 48-100 page manuscript. Employees and students of Franciscan University are not eligible. All entries will be read and judged anonymously.

Kathleen Hart’s A Cut-and-Paste Country won the first Jacopone da Todi Poetry Prize. In this riveting poetic venture, Hart explores characters and artists who “cut and paste” in an effort to create personal refuges of beauty and peace that ultimately reflect praise of God. She employs what Craig calls a “marvelously Catholic” voice and a deep sense of humility to depict the beauty God can bring from our brokenness.

The Jacopone da Todi Poetry Series was named in honor of the 13th-century lawyer and poet, who after a powerful conversion, joined the Franciscans as a lay brother. Imprisoned during the siege of Palestrina, he continued to write poignant poetry even while held captive.

Manuscripts will be read only in August. For more information and complete submission guidelines, email Dr. David Craig, series editor, at [email protected], or visit the Franciscan University Press webpage.