TATTOO PRESS is a small imprint devoted to publishing quality South African short fiction. As an independent publisher based in Cape Town, I place an emphasis on building close and interactive relationships with my authors to produce short story anthologies and novellas worthy of the drum roll. Please send queries, about editing and publishing, via the contacts page. Several of the anthologies listed here were published by TATTOO, including the latest anthology, funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa, Hair: Weaving & Unpicking Stories of Identity.

Edited by Joanne Hichens and Karina M. Szczurek (2019)

“Enthralling. Excellent idea given rich life by sharp writing and exquisite images.”
– John Maytham, Cape Talk 

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2017)

“A memorable collection of South African writing – the strongest of the SHORT.SHARP.STORIES anthologies to date.”
– Tim Richman

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2016)

“The inventiveness, the mix of raw and honed talent, and the dark humour make for a rewarding read.”
– Karina M. Szczurek

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2015)

“Stories that guide the reader, by surprising routes, to a range of fascinating destinations.”

– Henrietta Rose-Innes 

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2014)

“Whatever you’re looking for – filth, fantasy, tenderness, suspense or a grand belly laugh – you’ll find it here.”
– Helena S. Page,  author of The Girl Walks Into a Bar

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2013)

“It is a great pleasure to be associated with this book… Buy it. Read it. Relish it.”
– Deon Meyer

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2010)

“The Bed Book of Short Stories – some quirky and tender, others traumatic or macabre – is the perfect companion to take to bed with you, to keep you reading long into the night.”
– African Books Collective

Edited by Joanne Hichens (2009)

“They told me there were gold mines in South Africa – and look what just came out.”
– Lee Child, bestselling author of the Jack Reacher series