Publication: Atavist Magazine
Topic(s): Narrative nonfiction, investigative journalism
Rate: $6,000+ per piece
Deadline: Rolling
Client’s Name: Seyward Darby (Editor in Chief)
Submit Via: Email – seyward@atavist.com

What They’re Looking For:

Atavist is calling on bold writers with cinematic stories that read like true-crime thrillers, epic investigations, or unforgettable deep-dives into human experience. Think longform storytelling with stakes, a narrative arc, and serious reporting muscle.

If you’re sitting on a story that needs space to breathe—4,000 to 10,000+ words—this is your moment. But please don’t send short personal essays or pitches that don’t align with their vibe.

📌 Before pitching, read Atavist’s pitch guide and a few of their past features to understand their standard of narrative storytelling.

Resources/Guides:

• Atavist Story Archive – Get a feel for their storytelling
• Pitch Guidelines – Read before submitting

How To Get This Client:

Start by reading 2-3 full stories from their archive. Identify what makes their structure tick. Then, craft your pitch as if it were the intro to your piece—hook, stakes, characters.
Be clear about your access to sources, timeline, and why you’re the one to tell this story. Email Seyward directly, and keep it tight, professional, and irresistible.

Pro Tip:

Atavist pays premium for premium reporting. But if your storytelling lacks structure, character development, or narrative flow—you’ll lose out. Our Sure Media Training Program will teach you how to pitch narrative nonfiction like a pro. Even seasoned writers get rejected. Don’t wing it. Train smart.