Mother Jones Writer's Guidelines

Mother Jones produces revelatory journalism that seeks to inform and inspire a more just and democratic world. The national bimonthly magazine with a paid circulation of 210,000 is known for its investigative journalism and exposés, and its coverage of social issues and public affairs . Most of the articles we print are written by freelancers.

What We're Looking For

• Hard-hitting, investigative reports exposing government cover-ups, corporate malfeasance, scientific myopia, institutional fraud or hypocrisy, etc.
• Thoughtful, provocative articles which challenge the conventional wisdom (on the right or the left) concerning issues of national importance.
• Timely, people-oriented stories on issues such as the environment, labor, the media, health care, consumer protection, and cultural trends.

How to Query Us

Send us a letter proposing your story idea(s). Explain what you plan to cover and how you will proceed with the reporting. The query should convey your approach, tone, and style, and should answer the following: What are your specific qualifications to write on this topic? What "ins" do you have with your sources? Can you provide full documentation so that your story can be fact-checked?

Keep in mind that the magazine's lead time is three months and submissions should not be so time-bound that they will appear dated. If we, or another publication, have run a similar story in the last few years, explain how your story will differ.

If you have not contributed to Mother Jones before, please send two or three photocopies of previously published articles along with your query. We do not accept unsolicited manuscripts or fiction. Mother Jones assumes no responsibility for unsolicited queries or manuscripts and will only respond to those accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Therefore, please do not query us by phone or fax.

We do accept queries via our contact form (No attachments, please.)

How to Learn More About Us

The current issue of Mother Jones Magazine can be purchased at your local newsstand.

Back issues are $7.95 and can be ordered by mailing your check or money order to:

Back Issues
Mother Jones
222 Sutter Street
Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94108