Short stories can be very challenging to write—specifically, they’re hard to do well (it’s fairly easy to write a so-so story), but creating a powerful short story is one of the most exhilarating creative experiences I’ve ever known. And publishing stories can be rewarding. For many writers, building a resume with story publications is just about the only way to get the attention of a literary agent. 

Duotrope was first created in 2005 as a database of literary journals, and a place to track your submissions. Duotrope offers a searchable database of more than 7,500 English-language publishers and agents for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in 40+ countries. The website provides a deadline calendar and statistics on Duotrope-listed publishers and agents.