About Us
The Floating Acorn Review is not only a platform for celebrating literary talents, but also a nurturing ground for emerging writers to develop and refine their craft. Our team is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where writers from all backgrounds can find their voice and share their stories. Through our carefully curated selection of thought-provoking fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, we aim to provoke introspection and ignite conversations on the universal themes of human experience.
Additionally, we look forward to expanding our reach beyond New Jersey, with the goal of establishing connections with writers and readers from across the globe, enriching our literary community with diverse perspectives and narratives.
The Type of Writing We Like
We are deeply intrigued by the subtleties of life, always on the lookout for works that embody a sense of quiet introspection and gentle grace. Our fascination lies in the understated beauty of everyday experiences, from the soft murmurs of a coffee shop in the early hours of the morning to the hushed rustling of leaves in a secluded forest. We find solace in the contemplative nature of three a.m. train rides, welcoming the opportunity for tender reflections amid the rhythmic sway of the carriage.
Similarly, the image of stones skipped on stormy beaches captures our imagination, evoking a vivid sense of resilience and determination in the face of tumultuous surroundings. We seek narratives that traverse the delicate boundary between nature and the human spirit, intertwining these elements to convey profound insights and evoke a sense of wonder. In our pursuit of literary treasures, we are drawn to vibrant descriptions that breathe life into the pages, leaving an indelible impression on the reader’s mind. Each word, each sentence is an invitation to embark on a sensory journey, where even the smallest pieces carry the power to resonate deeply with the soul.
Meet The Team
Melanie M Steger
Founder, Chief Editor
Melanie (she/they) is a writer and editor based amongst the forests and lakes of Northwest New Jersey. She holds an MFA in Creative and Professional Writing from William Paterson University where she currently teaches part-time. While she’ll read just about anything, including the fine print on milk cartons, her writing primarily focuses on nature, the human condition, and the unique intersections between the two. Currently, she is working on a novel encapsulating these themes. Her work can be found or is forthcoming in Sky Island Journal, Ranger Magazine, and The Zodiac Review amongst others.
Laiba Khurshid
Managing Editor
Laiba (they/them) is a writer and reader based in Central Jersey. An aspiring librarian, they hold a deep appreciation for literature of all kinds, from beloved, long novels to short, obscure stories, and everything in between. Their passion for books is matched only by their love for exploring diverse genres. In their own writing, Laiba’s work often delves into themes of whimsy, blending the fantastical with lightheartedness, while also exploring the darker realms of horror. Nature symbolism plays a significant role in their stories, where the natural world often serves as both a backdrop and a deeper metaphor, adding layers of meaning to their work.
Cherrylle L. Urbano
Digital Marketing Manager, Editor
Cherrylle (she/her) is the digital marketing manager, expertly steering social media and web design. With a dual bachelor’s degree in English Writing and Marketing from William Paterson University, she blends creativity with strategy to elevate digital experiences. Beyond her professional work, she is an avid gamer, shoujo anime enthusiast, and self-proclaimed book dragon. Cherrylle aspires to grow within the world of publication marketing, helping authors and writers amplify their voices and reach broader audiences—making small voices louder.
Lux Kaleja
Editorial Assistant
Lux Kaleja (they/them) has been writing poetry since elementary school. Their work focuses on mental health issues and the rebirth that comes along with it. Lux aims to write for people going through hardships so they don’t feel as alone. They were raised on the East Coast of the USA and currently live in Leeds, England with their partner Mika and their cat Prince. They are currently in school pursuing a degree in Creative Writing.
Isabella DiPisa
Editorial Assistant
Isabella DiPisa is a senior at William Paterson University studying Music & Entertainment Industries with a minor in English Literature. She was published in FAR’s second volume and has been editing for Zeitgeist, the undergraduate literary magazine at WP, since her freshman year. She also currently serves as their PR Chair. She’s been passionate about reading and writing since elementary school, and is excited to continue contributing to FAR as an Editorial Assistant.
