Nerd Emergencies!
…and other misunderstandings
“Nerd Emergencies: And Other Misunderstandings” is a comics anthology project looking for submissions. The theme of the anthology is neurodivergence and we are very interested in showcasing work from neurodivergent* creators. Allies, the open-minded, and the undiagnosed are also welcome to submit. This will be a print anthology with the standard comics page aspect ratio of 2:3.
We will accept works that have previously appeared elsewhere so long as you hold the reprint rights.
The theme for the first volume will be visibility/invisibility. We are specifically interested in pieces that explore the visible and/or invisible aspects of being neurodivergent. But, if you’ve got a really great comic that doesn’t quite fit the theme, submit it anyway! One of the Partly Robot guiding principles is that sidequests are always an option.
The submissions deadline for the first volume is November 15, 2025.
If you have an idea for a piece that will be longer than 4 pages, that sounds awesome. Please drop us a line so we know how to plan.
FAQs
What do you mean by “neurodivergent”?
What we mean by neurodivergent is the original intent of the term, as coined by Kassiane Asasumasu. So, that’s any significant difference in brain setup from the neurologically typical. Not just the A-listers, autism and ADHD, but also the things that start with ‘B’ and ‘D’ and ‘O’ and ‘T’ an probably all the other letters, too. Pretty much most stuff in the DSM and even some things that aren’t. No specific diagnosis required, self-determination is absolutely valid. We are much more interested in cool comics from interesting brains than we are in checking doctor’s notes.
Do artists/writers have to have a diagnosis to submit?
No. Do not let impostor syndrome get in the way if you’ve got a good comic idea. Also, allies of neurdivergent people can submit, too.
Are there any hard pass content concerns?
That’s a good question. At this point, this is a brand new project. We’re going to look at things case by case and story by story. That being said, this is a work that is intended to expand inclusion and awareness of neurodivergencies. So, anything that goes against that spirit of inclusion is going to be a tough sell for us.
Will creators be paid for their work?
The question of the ages. We don’t want to say ‘no’ but we also can’t ethically say ‘yes.’ This is a DIY bootstrap operation that we’re doing because it sounds fun and it could be very helpful for the people who read it. We believe in art. Unfortunately, art doesn’t always believe in capitalism. That being said, if anyone knows of applicable grants and benefactors who would be interested in helping this project out, please let us know!
How do we ask more questions?
Click the button below!
Partly Robot Industries 