How I Published My First Poetry Chapbook

lauradyoung
Oct 16
2 min read

It started with one poem — and then another — and then a theme I couldn’t ignore.

“Burnt Toast and Benedictions” wasn’t built overnight. It came together over months of writing, revising, and rearranging until it began to hold its own emotional shape. Ten poems, each domestic, quiet, queer, and a little wry. The kind of collection that whispers more than it shouts — and still says something worth hearing.

I chose to publish through Bottlecap Press, a micropress known for its support of emerging and underrepresented voices. Their mini-chapbook series was the perfect fit: low-cost, accessible, and beautifully designed. I submitted via their open call, and after a brief period of review, my chapbook was accepted.

The process moved quickly after that — layout, proofs, small edits, cover design, and a final PDF for my records. I appreciated their professionalism and the creative control they offered me as a poet.

Since publication, I’ve been doing the legwork of getting it into readers’ hands. That means:– Sharing it across social media (Instagram, Bluesky, etc.)– Sending out review copies to literary blogs and chapbook reviewers– Contacting local bookstores and coffeehouses that might be open to stocking a few– Letting former coaches and editors know about the launch

It’s a strange and lovely feeling to hold your own work in book form — even stranger to see others reading it.

If you’re working on a chapbook of your own, my advice is this: Let the poems guide the shape. Don’t rush the assembly. Find a press that aligns with your values. And when you’re ready, submit with a full heart.