10 February 2012
Sri Lankan debut novelist wins prestigious US $50,000 prize for his book Chinaman
The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2012 was awarded to Singapore based Sri Lankan author Shehan Karunatilaka for his book Chinaman (Random House, India), a novel that explores cricket as a metaphor to uncover a lost life and a lost history. Chinaman skilfully uses sport and the notion of fair play to look at Sri Lanka in a fresh and exciting way.
The US $50,000 DSC Prize 2012 was awarded to Shehan Karunatilaka at a ceremony attended by eminent literary figures, renowned authors, international media and a diverse literary audience. The event took place at the DSC Jaipur Literature Festival, one of the biggest literary festivals in the region. The DSC Prize was awarded to Shehan Karunatilaka by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Queen Mother of Bhutan.
A total of six authors were part of the Shortlist for the DSC Prize 2012 from which the winner was announced. The other shortlisted authors were U.R. Ananthamurthy: Bharathipura (Oxford University Press, India, Translated by Susheela Punitha), Chandrakanta: A Street in Srinagar (Zubaan Books, India, Translated by Manisha Chaudhry), Usha K.R: Monkey-man (Penguin/Penguin India), Tabish Khair: The Thing About Thugs (Fourth Estate/HarperCollins-India), and Kavery Nambisan: The Story that Must Not Be Told (Viking/Penguin India)
The DSC Prize was judged by a distinguished Jury chaired by Ira Pande along with Dr. Alastair Niven, Dr. Fakrul Alam , Faiza S Khan and Marie Brenner. The Shortlist was announced in October 2011 at the DSC South Asian Literature Festival in UK.
Commenting on the occasion Ira Pande, Jury chairperson said:
“The jury unanimously chose this year’s winner. While this fact in itself is a historic one for book juries are notorious for spirited battles over lists and winners, let me add that this year’s winner is also important for several other reasons. The winning title is a brilliant narration of all that is both great and sad about South Asia and in that sense it brings a world to the reader that needs to be seen outside this region. No longer are novelists who write of violence, breakdown of communities and the old way of life able to speak the whole truth about our world.”
Speaking further about the winning book, she said, “The speech rhythms of smaller towns and indigent characters, so seldom seen and heard, are brought alive by a writer who handles character and speech with consummate ease. That world has long needed a suitable metaphor and he has discovered it: Cricket. Set in Sri Lanka, as an epic search for a lost player, Chinaman by Shehan Karunatilake is both a portrait of a lost way of life and a glimpse into the future this vast and vivid region is fated to occupy.”
Shehan Karunatilaka’s debut novel Chinaman (Random House, India) was awarded the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2012, recognizing it as the best work of fiction pertaining to the South Asian region, published in the last year in English, including translations into English.
Manhad Narula, Director DSC Limited and Founder of the DSC Prize, commented on the occasion saying:
“Congratulations to Shehan Karunatilaka for a book that represents the best South Asian writing and winning the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2012. I thank the jury members who’ve had the difficult task of choosing a winner among several exceptional works submitted this year. Now in its second year running, the DSC Prize has built a strong and engaging platform for the recognition of South Asian writing. We are committed to showcasing the best writing in the region and bringing it to a larger global audience”
The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature was instituted in January 2010 to celebrate writing that highlights the South Asian region, its people, culture and diaspora. The DSC Prize, which has been envisioned as a unique and prestigious award, recognizes the literary works of authors across the globe writing on South Asia, transcending the origin or ethnicity of the author. The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature is one-of-its-kind in the region and aims at recognizing literary work that is redefining the understanding of South Asia across the globe. The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2011 was awarded to HM Naqvi for his debut novel Home Boy (HarperCollins India). The DSC Prize is guided by an international Advisory Committee of eminent literary personalities comprising MJ Akbar, Urvashi Butalia, Tina Brown, William Dalrymple, Lord Meghnad Desai, David Godwin, Surina Narula, Senath Walter Perera, Nayantara Sehgal and Michael Worton.
Contact Information:
Website: http://dscprize.com
Read more
The US $50,000 DSC Prize 2012 was awarded to Shehan Karunatilaka at a ceremony attended by eminent literary figures, renowned authors, international media and a diverse literary audience. The event took place at the DSC Jaipur Literature Festival, one of the biggest literary festivals in the region. The DSC Prize was awarded to Shehan Karunatilaka by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Queen Mother of Bhutan.
A total of six authors were part of the Shortlist for the DSC Prize 2012 from which the winner was announced. The other shortlisted authors were U.R. Ananthamurthy: Bharathipura (Oxford University Press, India, Translated by Susheela Punitha), Chandrakanta: A Street in Srinagar (Zubaan Books, India, Translated by Manisha Chaudhry), Usha K.R: Monkey-man (Penguin/Penguin India), Tabish Khair: The Thing About Thugs (Fourth Estate/HarperCollins-India), and Kavery Nambisan: The Story that Must Not Be Told (Viking/Penguin India)
The DSC Prize was judged by a distinguished Jury chaired by Ira Pande along with Dr. Alastair Niven, Dr. Fakrul Alam , Faiza S Khan and Marie Brenner. The Shortlist was announced in October 2011 at the DSC South Asian Literature Festival in UK.
Commenting on the occasion Ira Pande, Jury chairperson said:
“The jury unanimously chose this year’s winner. While this fact in itself is a historic one for book juries are notorious for spirited battles over lists and winners, let me add that this year’s winner is also important for several other reasons. The winning title is a brilliant narration of all that is both great and sad about South Asia and in that sense it brings a world to the reader that needs to be seen outside this region. No longer are novelists who write of violence, breakdown of communities and the old way of life able to speak the whole truth about our world.”
Speaking further about the winning book, she said, “The speech rhythms of smaller towns and indigent characters, so seldom seen and heard, are brought alive by a writer who handles character and speech with consummate ease. That world has long needed a suitable metaphor and he has discovered it: Cricket. Set in Sri Lanka, as an epic search for a lost player, Chinaman by Shehan Karunatilake is both a portrait of a lost way of life and a glimpse into the future this vast and vivid region is fated to occupy.”
Shehan Karunatilaka’s debut novel Chinaman (Random House, India) was awarded the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2012, recognizing it as the best work of fiction pertaining to the South Asian region, published in the last year in English, including translations into English.
Manhad Narula, Director DSC Limited and Founder of the DSC Prize, commented on the occasion saying:
“Congratulations to Shehan Karunatilaka for a book that represents the best South Asian writing and winning the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2012. I thank the jury members who’ve had the difficult task of choosing a winner among several exceptional works submitted this year. Now in its second year running, the DSC Prize has built a strong and engaging platform for the recognition of South Asian writing. We are committed to showcasing the best writing in the region and bringing it to a larger global audience”
The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature was instituted in January 2010 to celebrate writing that highlights the South Asian region, its people, culture and diaspora. The DSC Prize, which has been envisioned as a unique and prestigious award, recognizes the literary works of authors across the globe writing on South Asia, transcending the origin or ethnicity of the author. The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature is one-of-its-kind in the region and aims at recognizing literary work that is redefining the understanding of South Asia across the globe. The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature 2011 was awarded to HM Naqvi for his debut novel Home Boy (HarperCollins India). The DSC Prize is guided by an international Advisory Committee of eminent literary personalities comprising MJ Akbar, Urvashi Butalia, Tina Brown, William Dalrymple, Lord Meghnad Desai, David Godwin, Surina Narula, Senath Walter Perera, Nayantara Sehgal and Michael Worton.
Contact Information:
Website: http://dscprize.com
19 April 2011
The Story Award (Iran Literature Today)
The Story Award (Iran Literature Today)
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Iran Literature Today
Country: Iran
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Story Award honors and celebrates contemporary Iranian literature by writers under the age of 45 living and working in Iran. Each year the award alternates between recognition of novels and short story collections. The prize offered is the full funding for the translation into English and the publication overseas of the selected novel or short story collection. Iran Literature Today was founded in 2008 by Soheila Beski as an attempt to contribute to a greater understanding of the Iranian people and society through the window of literature. Since its inception, the website has commissioned the translation into English of the works of contemporary Iranian writers and has featured these on its website. The establishment of The Story Award is a next step toward this mission.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Iran Literature Today
Country: Iran
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Story Award honors and celebrates contemporary Iranian literature by writers under the age of 45 living and working in Iran. Each year the award alternates between recognition of novels and short story collections. The prize offered is the full funding for the translation into English and the publication overseas of the selected novel or short story collection. Iran Literature Today was founded in 2008 by Soheila Beski as an attempt to contribute to a greater understanding of the Iranian people and society through the window of literature. Since its inception, the website has commissioned the translation into English of the works of contemporary Iranian writers and has featured these on its website. The establishment of The Story Award is a next step toward this mission.
(Directory entry)
14 April 2011
Sant Taran Singh Vahemi Award for Outstanding Punjabi Literatteur
Sant Taran Singh Vahemi Award for Outstanding Punjabi Literatteur
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Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Haryana government
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Instituted by the Haryana Government, the Sant Taran Singh Vahemi Award is conferred on outstanding Punjabi litterateurs to reward their contributions to the promotion of Punjabi language. The winners are honored with an award money, memento, shawl and citations.
(Directory entry)
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Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Haryana government
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Instituted by the Haryana Government, the Sant Taran Singh Vahemi Award is conferred on outstanding Punjabi litterateurs to reward their contributions to the promotion of Punjabi language. The winners are honored with an award money, memento, shawl and citations.
(Directory entry)
12 April 2011
Dhvani Pratisthana International Drama Award
Dhvani Pratisthana International Drama Award
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Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Dhvani Pratisthana UAE
Country: UAE
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Dhvani Pratisthana UAE organizes the Dhvani International Drama Writing Contest where the winner is awarded Rs 25,000. The Sriranaga Ranga Award, on the other hand, was instituted by Dhvani Partishthana in memory of Late Sri Adya Rangacharya, a pioneer of Kannada Drama, and is presented every year to recognize great contributors in the field of Kannada Drama. The award includes Rs 25,000 and a citation. Both the awards are being conferred on the recipients in Dubai in a programme arranged by Dhvani Pratisthana. The award presenting ceremony is followed by Kannada Chutuku Sahitya Sammelana.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Dhvani Pratisthana UAE
Country: UAE
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Dhvani Pratisthana UAE organizes the Dhvani International Drama Writing Contest where the winner is awarded Rs 25,000. The Sriranaga Ranga Award, on the other hand, was instituted by Dhvani Partishthana in memory of Late Sri Adya Rangacharya, a pioneer of Kannada Drama, and is presented every year to recognize great contributors in the field of Kannada Drama. The award includes Rs 25,000 and a citation. Both the awards are being conferred on the recipients in Dubai in a programme arranged by Dhvani Pratisthana. The award presenting ceremony is followed by Kannada Chutuku Sahitya Sammelana.
(Directory entry)
04 April 2011
International Convention of Asia Scholars Book Prize
International Convention of Asia Scholars Book Prize
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Email Address: icas@iias.nl
Editor/Founder: International Institute for Asian Studies
Country: Asia/ Netherlands
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The ICAS Book Prize has been established by the International Convention of Asia Scholars in 2004. It aims to create an international focus for publications on Asia while increasing their worldwide visibility. The biennial ICAS Book Prize is awarded for outstanding English-language works in the field of Asia Studies. Reference works, anthologies, fiction, poetry, travel books, autobiographies, memoirs, pamphlets, textbooks and exhibition catalogues are not eligible. The ICAS Book Prizes (IBP) are awarded for: (1) best study in the humanities; (2) best study in the social sciences. Furthermore there are prizes for the most outstanding unpublished PhD dissertations in the field of the Humanities and Social Sciences. The Prize consists of € 2500 for each of the winning books (in case of multi-authored work the Prize will be equally shared) while ICAS will facilitate the publication of the best PhD dissertation.
(Directory entry)
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Go to website
Email Address: icas@iias.nl
Editor/Founder: International Institute for Asian Studies
Country: Asia/ Netherlands
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The ICAS Book Prize has been established by the International Convention of Asia Scholars in 2004. It aims to create an international focus for publications on Asia while increasing their worldwide visibility. The biennial ICAS Book Prize is awarded for outstanding English-language works in the field of Asia Studies. Reference works, anthologies, fiction, poetry, travel books, autobiographies, memoirs, pamphlets, textbooks and exhibition catalogues are not eligible. The ICAS Book Prizes (IBP) are awarded for: (1) best study in the humanities; (2) best study in the social sciences. Furthermore there are prizes for the most outstanding unpublished PhD dissertations in the field of the Humanities and Social Sciences. The Prize consists of € 2500 for each of the winning books (in case of multi-authored work the Prize will be equally shared) while ICAS will facilitate the publication of the best PhD dissertation.
(Directory entry)
23 March 2011
Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher Arab Literary Prize
Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher Arab Literary Prize
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Email Address: info@bluemetropolis.org
Editor/Founder: Blue Metropolis Literary Festival
Country: Middle East/ Canada
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Bestowed annually, since 2007 to an Arab writer working in any genre, in Arabic or another language, the Blue Metropolis Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher Arab Literary Prize has a value of $5,000. The prize is sponsored by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage to increase international recognition for Arab writers and literature. It is named after poet Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher, who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries and wrote what is known as Nabati poetry, which was composed in the Arabic dialect of the Arab Gulf region. Chaired by Blue Metropolis Founder and Artistic Director Linda Leith, the 2010 jury included Issa J. Boullata, writer, literary scholar, translator and contributing editor of Banipal magazine as well as Zaki Nusseibeh from the Presidential Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: info@bluemetropolis.org
Editor/Founder: Blue Metropolis Literary Festival
Country: Middle East/ Canada
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Bestowed annually, since 2007 to an Arab writer working in any genre, in Arabic or another language, the Blue Metropolis Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher Arab Literary Prize has a value of $5,000. The prize is sponsored by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage to increase international recognition for Arab writers and literature. It is named after poet Al Majidi Ibn Dhaher, who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries and wrote what is known as Nabati poetry, which was composed in the Arabic dialect of the Arab Gulf region. Chaired by Blue Metropolis Founder and Artistic Director Linda Leith, the 2010 jury included Issa J. Boullata, writer, literary scholar, translator and contributing editor of Banipal magazine as well as Zaki Nusseibeh from the Presidential Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
21 March 2011
Pakistan Academy of Letters' National Literary Awards
Pakistan Academy of Letters' National Literary Awards
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Email Address: info@academy.gov.pk
Editor/Founder: Pakistan Academy of Letters
Country: Pakistan
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Pakistan Academy of Letters was established during the premiership of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto as an autonomous organization in July, 1976. It promotes literary activities conferring awards on meritorious works under the Hijra National Literary Awards Scheme launched in 1980 (1401 A.H). 1.) The Kamal-e-Fun Award is conferred in recognition of lifetime achievement in the field of literature. It was launched in 1997. It carries a cash award of Rs. 5 lakh also. So far it has been conferred on the Late Ahmed Nadeem Qasmi, Mr. Intezar Hussain, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Yousufi, Mr. Ahmad Faraz, Mr. Shoukat Siddiqui, Mr. Muneer Niazi, Mohtarma Ada Jaffri, Mr. Sobho Gyan Chandani, Dr. Nabi Bakhsh Baloch and Jameel-ud-din Aali. 2.) The Shah Abdul Lateef Bhitai and Tassawuf Award alongwith cash award of Rs. 25,000/- was initiated in 1998 for research work on the saint and his mystic tradition. Dr. Nabi Bakhsh Baloch, Mr. Banhon Khan Sheikh, Agha Khalid Salim, Dr. Umme Kalsoom and Mr. Mohammad Hussain Khashif are its recipients. 3.) National Literary Awards were launched in 1980.The Awards are given every year to the authors of the best books in Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Saraiki, Pushto and English.The cash prize 10,000 is given to the recipients.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: info@academy.gov.pk
Editor/Founder: Pakistan Academy of Letters
Country: Pakistan
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Pakistan Academy of Letters was established during the premiership of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto as an autonomous organization in July, 1976. It promotes literary activities conferring awards on meritorious works under the Hijra National Literary Awards Scheme launched in 1980 (1401 A.H). 1.) The Kamal-e-Fun Award is conferred in recognition of lifetime achievement in the field of literature. It was launched in 1997. It carries a cash award of Rs. 5 lakh also. So far it has been conferred on the Late Ahmed Nadeem Qasmi, Mr. Intezar Hussain, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Yousufi, Mr. Ahmad Faraz, Mr. Shoukat Siddiqui, Mr. Muneer Niazi, Mohtarma Ada Jaffri, Mr. Sobho Gyan Chandani, Dr. Nabi Bakhsh Baloch and Jameel-ud-din Aali. 2.) The Shah Abdul Lateef Bhitai and Tassawuf Award alongwith cash award of Rs. 25,000/- was initiated in 1998 for research work on the saint and his mystic tradition. Dr. Nabi Bakhsh Baloch, Mr. Banhon Khan Sheikh, Agha Khalid Salim, Dr. Umme Kalsoom and Mr. Mohammad Hussain Khashif are its recipients. 3.) National Literary Awards were launched in 1980.The Awards are given every year to the authors of the best books in Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Saraiki, Pushto and English.The cash prize 10,000 is given to the recipients.
(Directory entry)
17 March 2011
Bihari Puraskar Award for Outstanding Work in Hindi
Bihari Puraskar Award for Outstanding Work in Hindi
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Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: KK Birla Foundation
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Bihari Puraskar Award, named after the famous Hindi poet Bihari, is awarded to an outstanding work published in Hindi or Rajasthani by a Rajasthani writer. The category of Rajasthani writers includes those who have been staying in Rajasthan for the past seven years or more and the original residents of the state who are staying anywhere in the country now.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: KK Birla Foundation
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Bihari Puraskar Award, named after the famous Hindi poet Bihari, is awarded to an outstanding work published in Hindi or Rajasthani by a Rajasthani writer. The category of Rajasthani writers includes those who have been staying in Rajasthan for the past seven years or more and the original residents of the state who are staying anywhere in the country now.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
16 March 2011
Kalima Fund for Arabic Translation
Kalima Fund for Arabic Translation
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Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage
Country: UAE
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Kalima, “word” in Arabic, is a bold, non-profit initiative funded by ADACH dedicated to funding the translation, publication and distribution of high quality works of classic and contemporary writing from other languages into Arabic. The initiative brings together authors, translators, publishers and distributors to make a wide range of books available to readers in Arabic. To date, Kalima has signed partner publisher agreements with more than twenty publishers, and put together a candidate database of 100 works to be translated into Arabic. Nine titles have already been translated and published throughout the Arabic-speaking world. Every year 100 classic and contemporary titles from around the world will be selected="true" by Kalima to be translated into Arabic. Kalima will play a major role in identifying quality publishing houses, improving book marketing and distribution, and investing in the skills of new translators to ensure the sustainability of the initiative. Kalima focuses on four key areas: (a) Funding the translation (into Arabic), publication and distribution of quality titles, working in tandem with renowned partner publishers in the Arab World, (b) Reinforcing marketing and distribution initiatives by supporting new channels and upgrading existing ones, (c) Supporting and promoting the Arab book industry on the international scene and acting as a catalyst to bring together the fragmented industry, and (d) Investing in translation as a profession to encourage better quality translators. Ultimately, the goal for Kalima is to help build a stronger Arab book industry.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage
Country: UAE
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Kalima, “word” in Arabic, is a bold, non-profit initiative funded by ADACH dedicated to funding the translation, publication and distribution of high quality works of classic and contemporary writing from other languages into Arabic. The initiative brings together authors, translators, publishers and distributors to make a wide range of books available to readers in Arabic. To date, Kalima has signed partner publisher agreements with more than twenty publishers, and put together a candidate database of 100 works to be translated into Arabic. Nine titles have already been translated and published throughout the Arabic-speaking world. Every year 100 classic and contemporary titles from around the world will be selected="true" by Kalima to be translated into Arabic. Kalima will play a major role in identifying quality publishing houses, improving book marketing and distribution, and investing in the skills of new translators to ensure the sustainability of the initiative. Kalima focuses on four key areas: (a) Funding the translation (into Arabic), publication and distribution of quality titles, working in tandem with renowned partner publishers in the Arab World, (b) Reinforcing marketing and distribution initiatives by supporting new channels and upgrading existing ones, (c) Supporting and promoting the Arab book industry on the international scene and acting as a catalyst to bring together the fragmented industry, and (d) Investing in translation as a profession to encourage better quality translators. Ultimately, the goal for Kalima is to help build a stronger Arab book industry.
(Directory entry)
14 March 2011
Taipei Literature Award
Taipei Literature Award
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Email Address: Literature@sudu.cc
Editor/Founder: Taipei Department of Cultural Affairs
Country: China
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Taipei Literature Award aims to find creative talents and forge a bond between Taipei's various communities through literary creations. As literature plays an important role in portraying passion, wrath, joy, and sorrow in different levels of society, the Department of Cultural Affairs hopes to make literature share an important place in Taipei City, and to document city life and the people who live in the capital city by hosting the annual literary event. The Taipei Literature Award has gained popularity over the years, and has received competitive submissions year after year. In order to present the diversity and richness of the Taipei Literature Award, the department opened a new category in 2008—the play script.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Literature@sudu.cc
Editor/Founder: Taipei Department of Cultural Affairs
Country: China
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Taipei Literature Award aims to find creative talents and forge a bond between Taipei's various communities through literary creations. As literature plays an important role in portraying passion, wrath, joy, and sorrow in different levels of society, the Department of Cultural Affairs hopes to make literature share an important place in Taipei City, and to document city life and the people who live in the capital city by hosting the annual literary event. The Taipei Literature Award has gained popularity over the years, and has received competitive submissions year after year. In order to present the diversity and richness of the Taipei Literature Award, the department opened a new category in 2008—the play script.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
05 March 2011
Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix
Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix
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Email Address: International Institute for Children’s Literature
Editor/Founder: info@iiclo.or.jp
Country: Japan/ International
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The "Nissan Joyful Storybook and Picture Book Exhibition" has been held jointly by Nissan and the Foundation for Child Well-being during spring break each year since 1992. It is part of Nissan’s continuing "Support for Education" initiative, one of the main areas of Nissan’s social contribution activities. The event aims to provide an opportunity for children to exercise their imagination through their experiences with picture books and storybooks. The "Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix" commemorates the May 1984 opening of the International Institute for Children’s Literature, Osaka, which is Japan’s first comprehensive center for international children’s literature. Through the publication of the Grand Prize winners, the contest provides talented amateur authors and illustrators with the opportunity to become active professionally, and it provides children with outstanding storybooks and picture books through donation activities. The publications are donated through Nissan offices to approximately 3,300 libraries and 700 kindergartens and nursery schools across Japan.
Read about the 2010 winners here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: International Institute for Children’s Literature
Editor/Founder: info@iiclo.or.jp
Country: Japan/ International
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The "Nissan Joyful Storybook and Picture Book Exhibition" has been held jointly by Nissan and the Foundation for Child Well-being during spring break each year since 1992. It is part of Nissan’s continuing "Support for Education" initiative, one of the main areas of Nissan’s social contribution activities. The event aims to provide an opportunity for children to exercise their imagination through their experiences with picture books and storybooks. The "Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix" commemorates the May 1984 opening of the International Institute for Children’s Literature, Osaka, which is Japan’s first comprehensive center for international children’s literature. Through the publication of the Grand Prize winners, the contest provides talented amateur authors and illustrators with the opportunity to become active professionally, and it provides children with outstanding storybooks and picture books through donation activities. The publications are donated through Nissan offices to approximately 3,300 libraries and 700 kindergartens and nursery schools across Japan.
Read about the 2010 winners here.
(Directory entry)
21 February 2011
Priyadarshni Academy Literary Awards
Priyadarshni Academy Literary Awards
Go to website
Email Address: pa@priyadarshniacademy.com
Editor/Founder: Priyadarshni Academy
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Priyadarshni Academy’s Literary Awards honour people who have made significant contributions in Literature. The awards are given to four litterateurs for Hindi, Marathi, Sindhi and Gujarati. The award carries a cash award of Rs. 25,000 each and a trophy.
Read about the 2010 winners here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: pa@priyadarshniacademy.com
Editor/Founder: Priyadarshni Academy
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Priyadarshni Academy’s Literary Awards honour people who have made significant contributions in Literature. The awards are given to four litterateurs for Hindi, Marathi, Sindhi and Gujarati. The award carries a cash award of Rs. 25,000 each and a trophy.
Read about the 2010 winners here.
(Directory entry)
09 February 2011
The World Prize for the Book of the Year (Islamic Republic of Iran)
The World Prize for the Book of the Year (Islamic Republic of Iran)
Go to website
Email Address: sahmieh@tibf.ir)
Editor/Founder: Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance (Islamic Republic of Iran)
Country: Iran
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Notwithstanding the staggering development and variety of the mass media, books are still the most authentic and commendable means of transfering and promoting the culture and the most conspicuous symbol of cultural dynamism. The lofty status of the pen and the sublime rank of writing are continuously respected by the authorities throughout the world. As a system adhering to Islamic instructions with rich Islamic and Iranian culture, the Islamic Republic of Iran considers itself committed to uphold preserve the sacred realm of the pen and support and extol the men of learning. In order to perform this serious duty, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance founded "The Book of the Year of the Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1983, and "The World Prize for the Book of the Year of the Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1993, with the aim of selecting and introducing international books, and honoring their creators as they have elevated the general knowledge and culture, and have developed public familiarity with the written heritage, Every year, according to this plan books published within the year before in countries other than Iran in various languages are reviewed and the President's special Plaque of Commemoration and valuable prizes will be awarded to the authors.
Read about the 2011 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: sahmieh@tibf.ir)
Editor/Founder: Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance (Islamic Republic of Iran)
Country: Iran
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Notwithstanding the staggering development and variety of the mass media, books are still the most authentic and commendable means of transfering and promoting the culture and the most conspicuous symbol of cultural dynamism. The lofty status of the pen and the sublime rank of writing are continuously respected by the authorities throughout the world. As a system adhering to Islamic instructions with rich Islamic and Iranian culture, the Islamic Republic of Iran considers itself committed to uphold preserve the sacred realm of the pen and support and extol the men of learning. In order to perform this serious duty, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance founded "The Book of the Year of the Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1983, and "The World Prize for the Book of the Year of the Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1993, with the aim of selecting and introducing international books, and honoring their creators as they have elevated the general knowledge and culture, and have developed public familiarity with the written heritage, Every year, according to this plan books published within the year before in countries other than Iran in various languages are reviewed and the President's special Plaque of Commemoration and valuable prizes will be awarded to the authors.
Read about the 2011 winner here.
(Directory entry)
27 January 2011
Engro Excellence Award for Literature (Pakistan)
Engro Excellence Award for Literature (Pakistan)
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Ishrat Hussain/ Engro Corporation
Country: Pakistan
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Engro Excellence Awards give Pakistan a chance to present itself to the world as a nation of talented people who are capable, knowledgeable and innovative. The Awards recognize the contributions of three worthy recipients, one each from the fields of social and humanitarian services, literature and natural & applied sciences. Nominees are adjudicated by a jury comprising of five of Pakistan’s most esteemed and respected personalities, each of whom is considered a symbol of excellence and beacons of hope in their relevant fields. The Engro Excellence Awards aims to be an annual event and in the long run aims to be seen as one of the most prestigious civilian awards ceremony in Pakistan. The recipients which could be individuals or institutions are selected based on lifetime accomplishment and excellence in their respective fields and receive a cash prize of PKR 5 Million each at an exclusive award ceremony.
Read about the 2011 awarding ceremony here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Online form
Editor/Founder: Ishrat Hussain/ Engro Corporation
Country: Pakistan
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Engro Excellence Awards give Pakistan a chance to present itself to the world as a nation of talented people who are capable, knowledgeable and innovative. The Awards recognize the contributions of three worthy recipients, one each from the fields of social and humanitarian services, literature and natural & applied sciences. Nominees are adjudicated by a jury comprising of five of Pakistan’s most esteemed and respected personalities, each of whom is considered a symbol of excellence and beacons of hope in their relevant fields. The Engro Excellence Awards aims to be an annual event and in the long run aims to be seen as one of the most prestigious civilian awards ceremony in Pakistan. The recipients which could be individuals or institutions are selected based on lifetime accomplishment and excellence in their respective fields and receive a cash prize of PKR 5 Million each at an exclusive award ceremony.
Read about the 2011 awarding ceremony here.
(Directory entry)
05 January 2011
Ghazi al-Qosaibi Award for Poetry
Ghazi al-Qosaibi Award for Poetry
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Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Al-Qosaibi family
Country: Saudi Arabia
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Ghazi al-Qosaibi Award for Poetry was named after the late Saudi poet Dr. Ghazi Abdul Rahman al-Qosaibi (1940-2010) who is regarded as one of the most prominent creative personalities in the Arab world. The purpose of this award is to recognize and encourage Arab poets and poetic talents. Winners will be chosen by a committee composed of family members, leading thinkers and intellectuals, and friends of the late poet. The award also honors the late Ghazi al-Qosaibi and keeps his memory alive and present in the minds of future generations.
(Directory entry)
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Go to website
Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Al-Qosaibi family
Country: Saudi Arabia
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Ghazi al-Qosaibi Award for Poetry was named after the late Saudi poet Dr. Ghazi Abdul Rahman al-Qosaibi (1940-2010) who is regarded as one of the most prominent creative personalities in the Arab world. The purpose of this award is to recognize and encourage Arab poets and poetic talents. Winners will be chosen by a committee composed of family members, leading thinkers and intellectuals, and friends of the late poet. The award also honors the late Ghazi al-Qosaibi and keeps his memory alive and present in the minds of future generations.
(Directory entry)
01 January 2011
Assam Valley Literary Award
Assam Valley Literary Award
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Email Address: info@wmtea.com
Editor/Founder: William Magor Education Trust
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Assam Valley Literary Award was instituted by the Williamson Magor Education Trust. The tea company conceived the Assam Valley Literary Award in 1990 to honour outstanding creative writers who have enhanced the richness of Assamese literature. The award comprises of a cash award, a scroll of honour made of Assam "Muga" silk and a specially designed golden trophy. This trophy has been designed by the famous artist of Assam, Shri Shobha Brahma.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: info@wmtea.com
Editor/Founder: William Magor Education Trust
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: The Assam Valley Literary Award was instituted by the Williamson Magor Education Trust. The tea company conceived the Assam Valley Literary Award in 1990 to honour outstanding creative writers who have enhanced the richness of Assamese literature. The award comprises of a cash award, a scroll of honour made of Assam "Muga" silk and a specially designed golden trophy. This trophy has been designed by the famous artist of Assam, Shri Shobha Brahma.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
30 December 2010
The Sita Smriti Award for Hindi Writing
Sita Smriti Award for Hindi Writing
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Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Dr. Sita Srivastava
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: To honour her memory and further her passion for Hindi writing talent, the late Dr Sita Srivastava’s family has instituted an annual award for Hindi writing. The award consisting of a commendation and Rs 51,000 is to be given to any Hindi writer for a work of prose or poetry. Its distinguished jury is comprised of leading Hindi litterateurs who follow a very elaborate process to select the winner of the award.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: Undisclosed
Editor/Founder: Dr. Sita Srivastava
Country: India
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: To honour her memory and further her passion for Hindi writing talent, the late Dr Sita Srivastava’s family has instituted an annual award for Hindi writing. The award consisting of a commendation and Rs 51,000 is to be given to any Hindi writer for a work of prose or poetry. Its distinguished jury is comprised of leading Hindi litterateurs who follow a very elaborate process to select the winner of the award.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
29 December 2010
The Eliav-Sartawi Awards for Middle Eastern Journalism
The Eliav-Sartawi Awards for Middle Eastern Journalism
Go to website
Email Address: search@sfcg.org
Editor/Founder: Search for Common Ground
Country: USA/ Middle East
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Search for Common Ground has held the Eliav-Sartawi Awards for Middle Eastern Journalism since 2003. The Awards recognize and encourage journalism that contributes to better understanding between people and maintaining political dialogue in the Middle East. They were originally conceived by Mr. Zel Lurie, a veteran American journalist who first began reporting on the Middle East during the British Mandate in Palestine. By creating the Awards, Mr. Lurie sought to give recognition to journalists whose work promotes greater understanding between Arabs and Israelis. he main objective of the awards is to celebrate journalism that contributes to better understanding between people in the Middle East. We honor articles that try to open windows of understanding on the people in the region, and the issues that divide them, provide insight into regional issues and debates, contribute to political dialogue, expose readers to new perspectives and help to lay the groundwork for peaceful solutions.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: search@sfcg.org
Editor/Founder: Search for Common Ground
Country: USA/ Middle East
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Search for Common Ground has held the Eliav-Sartawi Awards for Middle Eastern Journalism since 2003. The Awards recognize and encourage journalism that contributes to better understanding between people and maintaining political dialogue in the Middle East. They were originally conceived by Mr. Zel Lurie, a veteran American journalist who first began reporting on the Middle East during the British Mandate in Palestine. By creating the Awards, Mr. Lurie sought to give recognition to journalists whose work promotes greater understanding between Arabs and Israelis. he main objective of the awards is to celebrate journalism that contributes to better understanding between people in the Middle East. We honor articles that try to open windows of understanding on the people in the region, and the issues that divide them, provide insight into regional issues and debates, contribute to political dialogue, expose readers to new perspectives and help to lay the groundwork for peaceful solutions.
(Directory entry)
26 December 2010
British-Kuwait Friendship Society Book Prize in Middle Eastern Studies
British-Kuwait Friendship Society Prize in Middle Eastern Studies
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Email Address: a.l.haysey@dur.ac.uk
Editor/Founder: Durham University
Country: UK
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: BRISMES administers the British-Kuwait Friendship Society Prize in Middle Eastern Studies. This was founded thanks to an endowment of the Abdullah Mubarak Charitable Foundation. In each of the years since the prize commenced, it has attracted around 30 nominations from some 15 publishers and the overall standard of entries has been extremely high. The prize is awarded for the best scholarly work on the Middle East each year. Normally the chronological remit of the prize will be from the rise of Islam until the present day, but outstanding scholarly entries from the pre-Islamic era may also be considered.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: a.l.haysey@dur.ac.uk
Editor/Founder: Durham University
Country: UK
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: BRISMES administers the British-Kuwait Friendship Society Prize in Middle Eastern Studies. This was founded thanks to an endowment of the Abdullah Mubarak Charitable Foundation. In each of the years since the prize commenced, it has attracted around 30 nominations from some 15 publishers and the overall standard of entries has been extremely high. The prize is awarded for the best scholarly work on the Middle East each year. Normally the chronological remit of the prize will be from the rise of Islam until the present day, but outstanding scholarly entries from the pre-Islamic era may also be considered.
(Directory entry)
25 December 2010
The Jewish Quarterly Wingate Literary Prize (Israel/ Commonwealth)
The Jewish Quarterly Wingate Literary Prize
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Email Address: wingate@jewishquarterly.org
Editor/Founder: The Jewish Quarterly
Country: UK
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Established in 1977 by the late Harold Hyam Wingate, the Jewish Quarterly-Wingate Literary Prize is now in its 31st year. The winner of the 2009 prize will receive £4,000. Jewish and non-Jewish authors resident in the UK, British Commonwealth, Europe and Israel are eligible. Books submitted must be in English, either originally or in translation. The Jewish Quarterly is the foremost Jewish literary and cultural journal in the English language. The Harold Hyam Wingate Charitable Foundation is a private grant-giving institution, established over forty years ago. In addition to supporting the Jewish Quarterly-Wingate Literary Prizes, it has also organised and supported the Wingate Scholarships.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Read more
Go to website
Email Address: wingate@jewishquarterly.org
Editor/Founder: The Jewish Quarterly
Country: UK
Type: Writers' Prize
Description: Established in 1977 by the late Harold Hyam Wingate, the Jewish Quarterly-Wingate Literary Prize is now in its 31st year. The winner of the 2009 prize will receive £4,000. Jewish and non-Jewish authors resident in the UK, British Commonwealth, Europe and Israel are eligible. Books submitted must be in English, either originally or in translation. The Jewish Quarterly is the foremost Jewish literary and cultural journal in the English language. The Harold Hyam Wingate Charitable Foundation is a private grant-giving institution, established over forty years ago. In addition to supporting the Jewish Quarterly-Wingate Literary Prizes, it has also organised and supported the Wingate Scholarships.
Read about the 2010 winner here.
(Directory entry)
Ranked: 500 highest-paying publications for freelance writers
The Freelance 500 Report (2015 Edition, 138 pages) profiles the highest-paying markets, ranked to help you decide which publication to query first. The info and links in this report are current. Details here.
