On Running a Literary Magazine With Founder Laurel Henry of Ocean Stars Review

This is the first article for our weekly interview series, “Youth!” a series where we feature young writers and youth initiatives

With the rise of social media, opportunities for creatives are more accessible than ever. One of the many ways creatives get their art and written work published is to submit to literary magazines. Social media has not only made this a lot easier for creatives to get published, but also for youth to step into leadership roles and build a platform for creative publishing. This week, we turn to Oceans Stars Reviews’s Founder and Editor in Chief Laurel Henry to learn about the magazine’s journey and current vision.

Established in late October last year, Ocean Stars Reviews is a youth-led literary magazine dedicated to providing a platform for writers and artists to showcase their work. In addition, they offer both writing and art tips, as well as literature analyses. They are currently accepting submissions for their magazine issue titled, Ethereal Fantasy as well as their weekly poetry feature, which is open daily. They accept submissions from all ages, genders, and ethnicities. 

Q: What inspired you to start Ocean Stars Review?

I’ve always loved literature, and I wanted to share my love for it with others! I wanted people to have the chance to share their stories, poems, and artwork.

Q: What is the meaning behind the magazine’s name? 

“Well, I live nearby the sea, so that pulls the ocean into it, and I have always had an interest with the stars. Both things are big and full of possibilities.” 

Q: What challenges do you face in running a literary magazine, and how do you deal with these challenges? 

For a while I ran my magazine solo, so that certainly was a challenge. I recently opened up staff applications to help combat this challenge by getting some help. I also struggle with finding time to get everything done, I am a very busy teen, and I have other extracurriculars beside the magazine. The best way I have dealt with this would be managing my time by scheduling and planning. Gaining traction has also been a little difficult, but consistency with posting certainly has helped.

Q: What kept you going, despite the difficulties?

 “Growing up I was taught that if you start something you finish it and you finish it well. I feel I have carried that mindset with me.

I also have some of my friends involved in the magazine. They help keep me inspired.” 

Q: What is the magazine’s current goal? 

Well, currently I have a five step goal set and written down. It details the future of the magazine. We have some very exciting things coming that I am unable to talk about quite yet. But a goal I can share would be to grow, and have more submission opportunities open.

Q: In closing, is there something that you would like to say to teens who are planning on starting their own literary magazine?

I would say to dream big, write down your plans (you’re more likely to work towards them). Create schedules, schedule posts, learn how to analyze instagram data analytics and understand them. Don’t do too many things all at once. (Don’t have like 50 open submissions for 50 different things at once) Remember to be consistent!”

Running a magazine as a teen is no easy task, but with determination and hard work one can pave the way. Despite the challenges, Laurel and her team has built something special with Oceans Stars Reviews. The magazine is living proof that—“if you start something, you finish it and you finish it well”.