Welcome

BleakHouse Publishing is an independent press devoted to creative writing, art, and photography on social justice. The press, founded by Robert Johnson, a professor of justice, law and society at American University, is staffed primarily by American University students and alumni. BleakHouse Publishing's mission is to publish works that shed a humane light on the nether world of penal institutions, as well as other repressive settings, practices, and beliefs.

Existential themes—such as suffering and loss, atonement and redemption—are central to works published by BleakHouse. Please note that all proceeds from the sale of our books and magazines are used to fund the publication of writings by prisoners and others of limited means.

Robert Johnson, Editor
Sonia Tabriz, Managing Editor
Liz Calka, Art Director
Rachel Cupelo, Marketing Director
Shirin Karimi, Senior Creative Consultant