With a mix of stories as diverse and vibrant as the place it covers, Alta Journal demystifies and illuminates California and the West for our readers. From provocative essays to investigative pieces, original fiction to cultural commentary, sumptuous photos to topical cartoons, the quarterly examines this compelling and complex region through a literary lens. The journal’s large pages, full-bleed photos, and perfect binding celebrate the power and beauty of print. 

Founded in 2017 by William R. Hearst III, Alta Journal provides an exciting—and much-needed—literary perspective on the West, sparking conversations that are as diverse and vibrant as the place itself.

Alta’s commitment to literature extends beyond the magazine. Our free, monthly California Book Club provides a carefully curated, intimate online interview series hosted by John Freeman. Guests included Hua Hsu, Isabel Allende, Dave Eggers, Jennifer Egan,and Andrew Sean Greer. We invite CBC members—12,000 and counting—to examine and reflect upon each title through regular essays and articles leading up to each event. 

We also produce several weekly newsletters, as well as digital and in-person events. We aim to bring the Alta experience directly to our deeply engaged audience. From our weekly Zoom program called Alta Live, our version of a chat show featuring writers, artists, and culture makers from the pages of Alta, to our regular Monday Book Review focused on new releases from West Coast authors, to issue launch parties hosted in partnership with independent bookstores, we’ve built an ever-growing community of captivated—and satisfied—readers.

In this era of rapid change, the award-winning Alta Journal offers an immersive literary experience like no other. 

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