MCC’s Literary Magazine The Dead River Review Debuts New Issue

Middlesex Community College’s online literary magazine The Dead River Review debuted a new issue on Tuesday, May 3. While the magazine presents an opportunity for Middlesex students, faculty and staff to share their creative voices, MCC students gain experience working on the publishing side of the industry – from reading submissions to putting the final copy together.

“I want to let people know that English and creative writing are indeed practical paths to pursue,” said Katie Durant, MCC English and Creative Writing Instructor. “There are lots of opportunities for wordsmiths in this world, and in creating each issue of the magazine, students learn valuable editing and publishing skills that can transfer into a real workplace.”

MCC Liberal Arts and Sciences student Nora McClellan, of Carlisle, has a passion for creative writing. She decided to get involved with MCC’s Dead River Review to learn more about the publishing industry, and called the process “collaborative and educational.” McClellan enjoyed working with Durant and her classmates.

“I have a better understanding of what goes on behind the scenes at a literary magazine,” she said. “Reviewing submissions has improved my critical reading skills. I also am more equipped to submit my own work to publications.”

Elizabeth Keegan, of Stoneham, worked on the publication to see if she enjoyed the editing and publishing sides of writing. The English and Writing major believed her entire experience in the program has made her a better writer, including working on the magazine. From discussing themes to reading submissions, editing work to formatting the issue, this early exposure showed her that she enjoys working in the industry.

“This was such a valuable experience for me in many ways,” she said. “Primarily, it has shown me how fascinating and enjoyable the backend of the writing process is, which is something I wasn’t exposed to before this. It also helped me better understand the process of why certain pieces are selected and others rejected, which will help me own writing in the future.”

Middlesex hosted a Dead River Review Catch and Release Party and Reading to feature the latest collection of poetry, fiction, essays and artwork created by MCC writers and artists. The community was invited to enjoy readings and presentations from the new issue.

In addition to working on the magazine, students in Durant’s capstone class learn more about the industry through special guest speakers, including authors, editors and producers. Durant believes the experience is also a valuable addition to students’ resumes. This exposure helps students who are interested in working in the field better understand their value in the workforce.

“Think about who creates and edits all that online credit,” Durant said. “Who writes for and edits newspapers, magazines, journals and books? Writers are in demand in this world.”