We’re thrilled to bring the 21st issue of Jenny Magazine featuring the supernatural into the world. When conceptualizing the issue, we sought to bring together a selection of unique pieces highlighting this fantastic genre that goes beyond and above the natural focusing on disruptions of the natural order.
In this issue, you will find six magnificent short stories with supernatural tendencies that speak to the world we live in today. For instance, Carina Stopenski’s “Like the Branches We Grew Thick” works topics such as gender dysphoria, bodily turmoil, and queer relationships into a striking supernatural narrative. “Artifact” by Cassidy McFadzean incorporates a unique structure to tell a story between the lines of authentic human connection. Additionally, we’re honored to support Anne Caywood’s first published piece “The Necromancer”.
We are so excited to house three flash fiction publications this issue that bring coherent supernatural stories into existence in under 1,000 words. “The Corn Knows What Happened Here” from Ohio’s own Jersee Hogue was one that sent pins and needles up our reader’s spines. Denmark author Jennifer Harvey’s piece “A Little Too Bright and Not Quite Real” featured gorgeous prose and a surreal view of reality.
Jenny Magazine is thrilled to release four amazing nonfiction pieces highlighting real and perceived supernatural experiences. “Zygosis” by Josiah Vallone in particular is a salient lyrical essay exploring a variety of paranormal situations. Victoria MacDonald’s piece “Do You Believe?” stole our reader’s hearts as a haunting narrative entangling trauma, sorrow, and hope.
Of the over 150 poems our team read for the issue, five stood above the rest and embodied the supernatural theme. We are proud to house Youngstown poet Dom Fonce’s prose poem titled “Backyard Pet Cemetery” which brings together sound and imagery to highlight a supernatural existence. Shira Haus’ poem “Believe It” was a quick favorite of our readers with its unique perspective and enticing narrative.
Youngstown’s own Gavin Esposito brings beauty and emotion to the many cemeteries in and around Youngstown in his photography featured in this issue. We are so excited to highlight and promote these spaces as historical museums for all to visit and admire.
This issue wouldn’t be possible without our staff who put countless hours into reading, rating, and deciding on featured pieces. A special thank you to our Assistant Editor Hope Hefright, Poetry Editor Anastasios Mihalopoulos, Fiction Editors Hannah Werle and Katie Urs, and Nonfiction Editor Colleen Rowland. Additionally, huge thanks to our readers Paula Jeffery, Sabrina Johnson, Brandon Cantwell, Heather Sutherin, and McKayla Anne Rockwell.
Finally, we’d like to thank our fantastic advisor, Christopher Barzak. Jenny Magazine wouldn’t exist if not for his care and dedication to the literary arts.
I hope you enjoy the 21st issue of Jenny Magazine and we appreciate your love for literature!
Sincerely,
Cassandra Lawton
Editor-In-Chief, Jenny Magazine