Our Mission

The Linden Review is a biannual, online journal produced by faculty and students in English, the English MA, low-residency MFA, and Medical Humanities programs at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and with the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

The journal’s mission is to publish high-quality creative nonfiction that investigates the complexities of the word health. We define health broadly and are interested in work that explores a deeper understanding and appreciation of bodily, emotional, spiritual, social, and environmental well-being.

The Linden Review is committed to publishing work from new and established writers of varied identities and backgrounds. We will be intentional in publishing BIPOC and LGBTQ writers; giving diverse writers a national platform is key to our mission. We welcome submissions of traditional and experimental forms of creative nonfiction and reviews of books that speak to our mission.

Each issue is curated by a new group of students, which will be indicated on the issue’s table of contents.

“Why The Linden Review?”

The linden tree, known scientifically as Tilia americana, is native to the Missouri River basin of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. It’s a hearty tree, resistant to drought and not overly picky about its soil. The linden makes a particularly effective windbreak with low, spreading branches that can brush the ground and a tall trunk to block out fierce western winds. Its leaf is large and heart-shaped, which we found apropos for a journal of health humanities. Before synthetic materials were widely available, linden wood, also called basswood, was a popular choice for prosthetic limbs. So, though the connection between the linden tree and a journal devoted to the medical humanities might not be evident at first glance, we uncovered more meaning as we dug into the subject, just like any essayist.

Calling this journal The Linden Review also helped us keep the connection to the native peoples of this area. The linden tree has been used for both industry and medicine by regional tribes. The pliable inner bark of the tree, called “bast,” makes for excellent fibers that can be turned into ropes, mats, baskets, and nets.

Moreover, the linden’s fragrant buds feed birds and deer, and even in its decay the tree’s cavities can house ducks, woodpeckers, and small mammals. It produces plenty of nectar, and bees make a sweet, limey honey from its pollination. In these ways, the linden reminds us that our personal and public health is inextricably intertwined with our environmental health.

Most of all, we wanted to create a space where writers and artists can share true stories and artwork that help patients, caregivers, medical professionals, parents, and more to process experiences of health, illness, and healing.