Union Square Launches Singularity, a New Novella Program Focused on Accessible, High-Concept Fiction

Union Square & Co., an imprint of Grand Central Publishing Group, has officially announced the launch of Singularity, a new publishing program dedicated exclusively to the novella form. The initiative, which begins in September, aims to release between 10 and 12 paperback titles per year, positioning itself as a specialized platform for shorter, high-impact fiction. The program is helmed by Mika Kasuga, the editorial director at Union Square, who will oversee the curation and development of the slate.

Inaugural Titles and Fall Slate

The Singularity program kicks off on September 1 with two distinct inaugural titles. The first is *Zero Lives Remaining* by Adam Cesare, described as a "gamers versus ghosts" slasher. This debut work sets the tone for the program’s interest in genre fiction that blends contemporary cultural references with traditional horror elements. The second inaugural title is a reissue of Harlan Ellison’s post-apocalyptic classic, *I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream*. This edition will include new exclusive content and archival photos, offering readers a fresh perspective on the celebrated work.

The fall season continues with the release of *The Waiter* by Kwan Ann Tan, scheduled for November 3. This speculative debut is structured as a choose-your-own-adventure-style narrative set in a surreal future London. The inclusion of this title highlights the program’s willingness to experiment with narrative structure and interactive storytelling elements within the novella format.

Spring 2027 Lineup

Looking ahead, the spring 2027 slate demonstrates a wide range of genres and tonal variations, underscoring the versatility of the novella form. The first title of the spring season is *The Psalmist* by John West, set for release on January 5. This work focuses on the personal journey of a recovering alcoholic, indicating that the program is not limited to speculative or genre fiction but also embraces literary and character-driven narratives.

In February, two titles are scheduled for release. On February 2, readers can expect *You Just Have to Ask Me* by Hadeer Elsbai, a horror novella. Following this, on February 9, Amanda Helms will publish *The Upper Tentacle*, which the publisher describes as an "anti-capitalist Lovecraftian homage." This title suggests a blend of cosmic horror with political and social commentary, a common thread in modern speculative literature.

The spring lineup continues in March with *Sweet Saints* by Cassandra Khaw, a cozy fantasy release scheduled for March 3. This title contrasts with the darker themes of the preceding months, offering a lighter, more comforting reading experience. The spring season concludes in April with *Shouting Distance* by Cherie Priest, set for release on April 20. Described as a "gritty supernatural southern noir," this work combines elements of crime fiction, supernatural horror, and regional setting, further expanding the program’s genre diversity.

Strategic Focus on the Novella Form

According to a spokeswoman, *I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream* is the only reissue in the initial Singularity slate, with the imprint primarily focusing on frontlist titles. This strategy suggests a commitment to discovering and promoting new voices and contemporary works rather than relying on established backlist properties. The program aims to showcase the strengths and versatility of the novella form, highlighting stories that achieve significant depth and complexity within a "concentrated, exhilarating format."

The physical presentation of these books is also a key component of the program’s identity. All Singularity titles are published as paperbacks with French flaps, a design choice that evokes a sense of classic literary quality while remaining accessible. This format is intended to provide a more approachable reading option for modern audiences.

Addressing Modern Reading Habits

Emily Meehan, SVP and publisher at Union Square, explained that the creation of Singularity was driven by a desire to adapt to changing reader behaviors. In a statement, Meehan noted that the program emerged from conversations with Kasuga about reduced attention spans and the growing demand for "snack-sized" reading experiences. The goal is to offer stories that do not compromise depth for length, providing sophisticated narratives that can be consumed in shorter time frames.

Meehan emphasized that the program is designed to celebrate the novella as a distinct and valuable format. By using Singularity as a platform, Union Square aims to showcase its commitment to creating books that resonate deeply with readers, particularly those seeking accessible yet complex stories in an increasingly distracted and digital reality. The initiative reflects a broader trend in publishing to cater to readers who may be hesitant to commit to full-length novels but are still interested in high-quality, engaging fiction.

Industry Implications

The launch of Singularity represents a strategic move by Union Square to carve out a niche in the market for shorter fiction. By focusing on a specific format and curating a diverse slate of genres, the program seeks to attract a wide range of readers, from genre enthusiasts to literary fiction fans. The inclusion of both new debuts and a reissue of a classic work demonstrates a balanced approach to building a robust catalog.

As the publishing industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Singularity highlight the ongoing search for new ways to engage readers. By emphasizing accessibility and depth, the program aims to make the novella form more prominent in contemporary literature, offering a viable alternative to the traditional novel while maintaining high editorial standards. The success of this program will likely depend on its ability to consistently deliver compelling stories that meet the expectations of modern readers while honoring the potential of the shorter form.