Paper Trail Literary Journal is expanding into Paper Trail Literary Press. What started as a space for poetry, short stories, and creative expression is now growing into something more. A new chapter begins, and every story leaves behind a Trail.

Some things should never become normal. Writing about difficult things does not make them easier, but it does give us a way to name what is happening and to question what we have accepted. Thank you to every poet who put their words forward and chose not to look away 💜

None of us are greater than the other, we are great because we have each other 🩷

Ronald said the title of his book reflects the second chance at life he believes he has been given. "A Life Returned not only reflects my survival, but also the opportunity to live with renewed purpose, gratitude and to inspire others."

At just 9 years old, Tenita has already published her first book. We are so proud of our little author 🩷 Anna and Bayley is about the special bond between a child and their pet. Tenita hopes her story will inspire other children to use their imagination.

PUBLISHING OFFER 📚 Whether you're a first-time author or ready to share your next book with the world, we'll help you transform your manuscript into a professionally published book. Terms and conditions apply. 💌 [email protected]

I'm excited to share a little sneak peek of what's coming next 🤎 This book is proof that you don't have to wait until you're older to make your dreams come true. At just 8 years old, Tenita Ashriya Majlis has written and illustrated her very first story!

Coming soon... A remarkable story of resilience, faith, and the strength of the human spirit 🤎 A Life Returned by Ronald Pillay is an inspiring memoir that reminds us that no setback is final, and that hope and perseverance can carry us through life's greatest challenges.

📰 our poets make headlines

A successful book launch 🩷 Through poetry and celebration, the essence of ubuntu echoed across the room. Every voice carried the collective power of being South African. It was a culmination of passion and dedication to our craft and our community.

The ebook is now available directly from each featured poet. When you purchase a copy from any of our contributors, you're supporting both the anthology and the individual voices behind it.

WE ARE BECAUSE WE ARE is a collection of poetry by 15 uniquely talented poets from the Paper Trail, Lit in Literature Writing Community 🩷

I'm super excited to have Letishaa Moodley⁩ join Paper Trail Lit Press as our in-house illustrator 🥰 She is a freelance artist and runs her own business, Comfy Illustrations, bringing stories to life with her beautiful and imaginative illustrations.

What began as a space for young writers in South Africa to share poetry, short stories, and creative work is now growing into something new. We will now also be helping writers bring their own books to life.

We have freedom, but are we truly free to be who we want to be? #freedomday #southafrica

Happy Easter from our writers that turned into bunnies for the day 🐇

A poem based on a true story, written by Vijayan Vengadachellam 💜