Peruse Zine

Every beginning requires a kind of courage - the willingness to move toward something not yet fully formed - and to trust an idea before knowing where it will lead. This inaugural issue, Beginnings, is grounded in a single, unwavering belief - that it is worth starting something before you feel ready. These beginnings are not small acts. They are, we think, necessary and revolutionary ones.

Within these pages, you will find beginnings in all their forms. Some unfold as moments of change, others as acts of return. First times and last times. Taking a chance, letting go, trying something new. They reflect the many ways beginnings take shape, often subtle, often uncertain, and rarely as simple as they may at first appear.

This anthology was created as a deliberate act of slowing down. In a world that rewards speed, we wanted to make something to sit with. To peruse is to move with intention rather than urgency, and that is the spirit in which every page here was shaped. These words are not for skimming. They are for lingering, revisiting, reading twice.

We are grateful to the writers and artists who trusted us with their work without knowing us, and to the many beginnings that brought these pieces into being. This issue marks the start of a community dedicated to supporting writers and building a space for bold and honest work.

Editors - Nel Herche, and Mya Brown, Elisabeth Connell, Mya Guardino, Shelby Rodger

Contributors - Jane Corbett, Heng Jonho, Yen Ooi and Antheia, Anne McPherson Arthurs, Faith-Anne Bell, D C Boyle, Mario Duarte, Donald Reed Greenwood, Nicholas Grooms, Gail Grycel, Nel Herche, Paul Hilding, Hannah Janssen, Sheyna ZL, David Anson Lee, Daniel Miltz, George Oliver, Julie Wittes Schlack, Kathy Sherban, Marc Simon, Tim Thornburgh, Peterson Toscano, Lynn White, Christopher Woods

Nel Herche is the founder and CEO of Peruse Lit, an author services agency that makes stories real and recognised by believing in the people who create them. From publishing services to promotion, Peruse Lit partners with writers by offering the tools, guidance and services they need so they can carry their stories with confidence. Nel is also a writer, artist and teacher, who is always in search of the next new project. Originally from the U.S., she lives in London with her family. peruselit.com / nelherche.com