Journal of the Westbrae Literary Group, Issue 1, Fall 2024

The Journal of the Westbrae Literary Group emerges as a powerful voice in contemporary literature, promoting fresh, raw, and unfiltered stories, essays, poetry, and art. In this inaugural issue, our contributors challenge the traditional literary canon, offering a platform for unique and authentic expressions from diverse perspectives. With roots in Berkeley, this journal reflects a commitment to highlighting the voices of those often outside the academic establishment.

Highlights from Issue 1 include:

• Poetry by Josh Greenbaum, Liliana Hazel Navelgas, and Arthur Jackson V, exploring themes of memory, nature, and the struggles of personal identity.

• Art by Ayana Sueishi-Hague, whose striking visual pieces complement the journal’s literary selections.

• Essays such as Feeling Weird in Fort Mac by Jay Youngdahl, which contemplates the intersection of work, identity, and environment in an oil-rich Canadian town.

• Short Stories by Katja Bartholmess (The Girl Ruby-Doux) and Jonathan D. Dyson (Fury of the Wind), which delve into fantasy and surrealism, while offering poignant reflections on human emotion and resilience.

• Prose Excerpts from upcoming works, including Katja Bartholmess’ The Last Summer and Jessamyn Violet’s Venice Peach.

This journal is a must-read for literature enthusiasts looking for compelling narratives and bold new voices that resonate deeply with the complexities of modern American life. Whether you’re drawn to the haunting beauty of poetry, the rich storytelling in essays and fiction, or the provocative artwork, this collection offers something for every reader.

Join us as we “resee” the world, reinterpreting reality through these vivid expressions of our shared experiences.