The longlist for the 2024 Sunday Times Literary Awards is out!

The longlist for the 2024 Sunday Times Literary Awards is out! This year marks the 34rd anniversary of the non-fiction and 23 years of the fiction prize.

The Sunday Times Literary Awards are South Africa's most prestigious annual literary awards for non-fiction and fiction. Presented in partnership with Exclusive Books, they are awarded annually to South African writers by the South African weekly newspaper the Sunday Times. Both winners receive R100,000. The nonfiction award was established in 1989 and the fiction award in 2001.

Nonfiction Prize

The nonfiction prize judging panel includes Kevin Ritchie (chair), Hlonipha Mokoena, and Sewela Langeni. The prize will be bestowed on a book that presents "the illumination of truthfulness, especially those forms of it that are new, delicate, unfashionable and fly in the face of power", and that demonstrates "compassion, elegance of writing, and intellectual and moral integrity".

Check out the non-fiction longlist below:

Daisy de Melker: Hiding Among Killers in the City of Gold by Botha, Ted

Finding Endurance: Shackleton, My Father and a World Without End by Bristow-Bovey, Darrel

Domestic Terror: Intimate Partner Violence in South Africa by Brodie, Nechama

Harry Oppenheimer: Diamonds, Gold and Dynasty by Cardo, Michael

Truth to Power: My Three Years Inside Eskom by De Ruyter, André

Durban's Casbah: Bunny Chows, Bolsheviks and Bioscopes by Desai, Ashwin and Goolam, Vahed

Coloured: How Classification Became Culture by Dooms, Tessa and Chutel, Lynsey Ebony

Decolonising the Palestinian Mind by Eid, Haidar

Rassie: Stories of Life and Rugby by Erasmus, Rassie with O'Sullivan, David

The Inheritors: An Intimate Portrait of South Africa's Racial Reckoning by Fairbanks, Eve

Place: South African Literary Journeys by Fox, Justin

Zondo at Your Fingertips by Holden, Paul

Corrupted: A Study of Chronic Dysfunction in South African Universities by Jansen, Jonathan

I am Ella by Jowell, Joanne

Standing Up for Science: A Voice of Reason by Karim, Salim S Abdool

Milk the Beloved Country by Khumalo, Sihle

Son of a Whore by Lategan, Herman

Capture in the Court: In Defence of Judges and the Constitution by Mafora, Dan

The Plot to Save South Africa: The Week Mandela Averted Civil War and Forged a New Nation by Malala, Justice

Dolly Rathebe: Queen of African Jazz Blues & Mbaqanga by Mazibuko-Msimang, Nokuthula

Shoot to Kill: Police and Power in South Africa by McMichael, Christopher

Impossible Skies: Life with My Brother, the Artist Walter Meyer by Meyer, Frans

Statues and Storms: Leading Through Change by Price, Max

The MiG Diaries: Fighter Pilot Memoirs and Accounts of Cuban, SAAF and Angolan Air Combat in Southern African Skies by Reid, Lionel with Lt-Col González Sarría, Eduardo

The Race To Be Myself by Semenya, Caster

Maye! Maye!: The History and Heritage of the Kwa Mai Mai Market by Sithole, Sipho

Winnie and Nelson: Portrait of a Marriage by Steinberg, Jonny

The Lion's Historian: Africa's Animal Past by Swart, Sandra

The End of Eden: Wild Nature in the Age of Climate Breakdown by Welz, Adam

Wake Up, This Is Joburg by Zack, Tanya, photography by Lewis, Mark

Dearest MaRiky: A Mother's Journey through Grief, Trauma and Healing by Zondo, Louisa

Fiction Prize

The fiction prize judging panel includes Siphiwo Mahala (chair), Michele Magwood, and Dr Alma-Nalisha Cele. The winning novel should be one of "rare imagination and style … a tale so compelling as to become an enduring landmark of contemporary fiction".

Check out the fiction longlist below:

Buried Treasure by Axelrad, Sven

Bridge by Beukes, Lauren

The Weight of Shade by Boyd, Michael

The Bitterness of Olives by Brown, Andrew

Lost Property by Choritz, Megan

At Fire Hour by Gilder, Barry

Flipped by Hawthorne, Tracey

On That Wave of Gulls by Head, Vernon RL

Each Mortal Thing by Heyns, Michiel

The Ghost of Sam Webster by Higginson, Craig

My Side of the Ocean by Irwin, Ron

Glass Tower by Isaacs, Sarah

The Reed Dance Stalker by Makholwa, Angela

Three Egg Dilemma by Morojele, Morabo

The Frightened by Msimang, Lethokuhle

Tunnel by Mulgrew, Nick

A Soft Landing by Mushwana, Wisani

Of Fathers and Fugitives by Naudé, SJ translated by Heyns, Michiel

On the Precipice by Nyatsumba, Kaizer M

Eye Brother Horn by Pitt, Bridget

The Resurrection by Qwabe, Sihle

Little Secrets by Schimmel, Gail

Bloomer by Schlebusch, Anne

The Thing with Zola by Sithole, Zibu

Paperless by Siwisa, Buntu

The Institute for Creative Dying by Thompson, Jarred

Ghost Limb by Van der Merwe, Almini

Decima by Venter, Eben

Mirage by Viviers, David Ralph

Sons of Mud by Vlok Louw, Johan

Congrats to all the longlisted writers!

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Poet Cheronne Roberts dedicates debut collection to coloured women

Elsies River poet, Cheronne Roberts, has released her debut poetry collection, "A Color Rose," dedicating it to the resilience and strength of Coloured women. The 37-year-old songwriter, who has previously been featured in three anthologies by the Poetry Institute of Africa, celebrates this milestone with a collection published by Wipf and Stock Publishers USA.

Roberts, who discovered her passion for poetry at a young age, explains, "Poetry is my way of communication and how I express myself."  She describes "A Color Rose" as a testament to the journey of Coloured women, who despite facing various struggles, including racial prejudice and socio-economic barriers, continue to rise above their circumstances.

"This book is for another Coloured girl to know she can also rise and be published overseas even if she has no support," says Roberts, emphasizing the importance of representation and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

Although initially rejected by local publishers, "A Color Rose" has found its place on the international stage, available in bookstores across Europe and the United States, including giants like Amazon.  The 80-page collection is also available to local readers via Takealot, with prices starting at R200.  With her powerful words and inspiring journey, Cheronne Roberts gives voice to the experiences of Coloured women and paves the way for aspiring writers from all communities.

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Books are power and ....money! Streetwise youngster makes a living selling books on the streets

In a heartwarming tale of turning passion into action, Ayabulela Nofemele, a 22-year-old book lover from Cape Town, is revolutionizing the way people access books in marginalized areas. The entrepreneurial spirit took hold when Ayabulela noticed the scarcity of bookstores in black communities, juxtaposed with the abundance of liquor stores. He decided to take matters into his own hands and sell books at an affordable price.

For two years, Ayabulela has been selling books on weekends at Thembokhwezi Square in Mandalay, offering a vast array of titles for R45 to R85, with none exceeding R100. His initial inventory of 10 books has grown exponentially, catering to a diverse range of tastes.

Ayabulela's journey began with a dream to build a personal library at home. However, his passion for reading led him to realize the potential impact he could have by making books accessible to those who need them most. He aims to encourage people, particularly the youth, to participate in activities like reading, debating, and discussing social issues.

The entrepreneur's customers are predominantly women, though men also show interest, often opting for self-help and self-development books. Ayabulela's own preferences lie with political and philosophical texts, as well as those detailing historical African events.

"I am grateful for the support I receive from the community members," he says, emphasizing the psychological benefits, critical thinking skills, and access to knowledge that reading provides.

Ayabulela's ambitious plans extend beyond his street-side stall. He dreams of opening physical and digital bookstores nationwide, spreading his mission to make books more accessible and foster a love of reading across South Africa. Thanks to his dedication and passion, Ayabulela is already making a positive impact on his community, one book at a time.

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Date set for the release of Lady Du's eargerly awaited book "Fame or Business"

South African vocalist Lady Du is adding "author" to her resume as she prepares to release her highly anticipated book, "Fame or Business."  The book launch, set for July 6th at Exclusive Books in Melrose Arch, marks a new chapter in her career, solidifying her expertise and passion for the business side of music.

Du has consistently championed the importance of business acumen in the music industry, often sharing insights and advice with both established and emerging artists.  Her book promises to offer a deeper dive into her accumulated knowledge, sharing valuable lessons and strategies for navigating the complexities of the music business.

The book launch promises to be an intimate affair, designed to celebrate this milestone with Lady Du's close circle, including family, friends, and a select group of her most dedicated fans.  "I chose to make this a night for my family, friends and a few fans," she wrote on social media, extending a special invitation to her "die hard" supporters.

This event is set to be a life-changing one for Lady Du, marking the culmination of her efforts and commitment to sharing her expertise.  The release of "Fame or Business" will undoubtedly resonate with artists and aspiring musicians seeking guidance and inspiration in their journey. 

Fans and music enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the release of Lady Du's book, which promises to offer a unique and valuable perspective on the music industry.  This launch signifies a new chapter for the talented artist, who continues to break boundaries and inspire others with her unwavering dedication and passion.

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Children's book on Anna De Koning released

Despite her remarkable life and legacy, Anna De Koning remains a relatively unknown figure in history. However, a new children's book aims to shed light on her extraordinary journey and make her a household name.

Anna arrived in the Cape Colony as an enslaved child from Bengal in the 17th century. Remarkably, she rose from these humble beginnings to become one of the colony's wealthiest and most influential women.

Author Lauren Jacobs spent years researching Anna's life to bring her story to young readers. "I was struck by the fact that we can visit places Anna owned, like Groot Constantia," says Jacobs. She believes that teaching children about the women who shaped Cape Town will foster pride and love for their ancestors.

Anna's portrait, the only known painting of a freed slave woman in 17th-century Cape Town, serves as a testament to her resilience and strength. She inherited her husband's entire estate after his death, leaving her with substantial wealth.

Jacobs hopes that schools will incorporate her book into their curriculum, providing children with a more inclusive and diverse narrative of their history.

 By highlighting Anna De Koning's remarkable achievements, the book seeks to inspire future generations and remind them that even those from the most challenging circumstances can make significant contributions to society.

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Kevin Jared Hosein's 'Hungry Ghosts' triumphs at the Walter Scott Prize 2024

in the historic town of Melrose, UK, Kevin Jared Hosein's novel "Hungry Ghosts" was crowned the winner of the prestigious Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction.

The Walter Scott Prize: A Legacy of Literary Excellence

Established in 2010, the Walter Scott Prize is a British literary award that celebrates the art of historical fiction. Named after Sir Walter Scott, the renowned Scottish author widely regarded as the father of the genre, the prize recognizes outstanding works published in English within the previous year.

A Jury of Literary Luminaries

The 2024 jury comprised a distinguished panel of literary experts, including novelist Katie Grant (Chair), former director of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery James Holloway, award-winning children's author Elizabeth Laird, broadcaster James Naughtie, broadcaster Kirsty Wark, and author and filmmaker Saira Shah.

Longlisted and Shortlisted Contenders

In February 2024, the longlist was announced, highlighting a diverse array of historical novels. On May 1st, the shortlist was revealed, bringing "Hungry Ghosts" into the final contention.

'Hungry Ghosts': A Compelling Literary Masterpiece

Kevin Jared Hosein's "Hungry Ghosts" emerged as the triumphant winner. Set in 1940s Trinidad, the novel delves into the lives of impoverished laborers struggling for survival amidst the island's lush landscapes.

Jury Chair's Praise

Katie Grant, Chair of the jury, lauded "Hungry Ghosts" as "a many-layered tale woven with the dexterity and alchemy of the true story-teller." She commended its rich imagination, urgency, and compelling portrayal of human resilience.

Author's Expression of Gratitude

Kevin Jared Hosein expressed his immense pride and gratitude for winning the coveted prize. He acknowledged the honor of representing Trinidad and Tobago on such a prestigious stage and the fulfillment he felt in carrying forth the aspirations of his ancestors who had journeyed to the island almost two centuries before.

A Triumph for Historical Fiction

"Hungry Ghosts" serves as a testament to the enduring power of historical fiction in capturing the complexities of human experience across time and cultures. The Walter Scott Prize 2024 celebrates Kevin Jared Hosein's exceptional storytelling and his contribution to the rich tapestry of historical literature.

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#Competition - Celebrate Youth Month by winning a R500 book voucher from Exclusive Books #FridayFeeling

In honour of Youth Month, let's celebrate the remarkable achievements of three young writers who are making waves in the literary world.

Lottie Hazell, Author of "Piglet"

Lottie Hazell's debut novel, "Piglet," tackles the complex themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and the pressures of marriage. Through the protagonist, Piglet, Hazell delves into the inner conflicts of a woman grappling with her own fears and societal expectations.

Zibu Sithole, Author of "I Do... Don't I?"

After the success of her first novel, "The Thing with Zola," Zibu Sithole returns with another heartwarming and thought-provoking romance. "I Do... Don't I?" follows Zola and Mbali as they navigate the complexities of relationships, commitments, and the search for true love.

Tlotlo Tsamaase, Author of "Womb City"

Tlotlo Tsamaase's debut novel, "Womb City," is a powerful exploration of motherhood, memory, and the rights of women over their own bodies. The protagonist, Nelah, faces a harrowing journey as she grapples with the consequences of a tragic event and the secrets she must keep.

These young authors are not only showcasing their exceptional storytelling abilities but also inspiring a new generation of readers. Their work addresses important social issues, challenges societal norms, and provides fresh perspectives on the human experience. 

As we celebrate Youth Month, let's recognize and support these talented voices that are shaping the future of literature. Their stories have the power to ignite conversations, cultivate empathy, and leave a lasting impact on our understanding of the world.


Enter the competition:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFHREXM6AsXwvbjJkgM_FYKtmh5Za4AUwaS2SYNJaIydqcig/viewform

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Aminta Dupuis wins inaugural Iskanchi Book Prize

Aminta Dupuis was crowned the winner of the inaugural Iskanchi Book Prize, a manuscript prize exclusive to African writers. Established by Iskanchi Press and Magazine, the prize aims to showcase exceptional new writing from the continent.

The winning manuscript, "The Child from Dindefello Falls," is a powerful and poignant work that explores themes of sorrow, injustice, and the enduring beauty of Africa. Through the experiences of the Senegalese people, Dupuis offers Western readers a lens into the struggles and triumphs of their African counterparts, fostering greater understanding and compassion.

Dupuis, a literature professor, poet, and musician, draws inspiration from her own experiences and the complexities of her homeland. Her previous work, "L'initiation de Faust et de Parzival, la Quête du Graal," delves into the initiation journeys of two fictional literary characters.

The Iskanchi Book Prize shortlist, announced on May 6, featured a diverse range of manuscripts, each showcasing the depth and breadth of African literature. Dupuis's victory is a testament to her exceptional talent and the importance of recognizing the vibrant literary voices of Africa.

Along with a $1500 cash prize, Dupuis will receive the honor of having her manuscript published by Iskanchi Press in the fall of 2025. The publication will undoubtedly contribute to the growing body of African literature available to global readers, enriching the literary landscape and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.

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African Speculative Fiction Society's Nommo Awards 2024 shortlists announced

The African Speculative Fiction Society (ASFS) unveiled the shortlists for its prestigious Nommo Awards 2024 on June 12th, 2024. The Nommo Awards recognize exceptional achievements in African speculative fiction, encompassing magical realism, sci-fi, horror, and graphic novels.

Since their inception in 2016, the Nommo Awards have celebrated talented writers across the continent. Past winners include renowned authors such as Nnedi Okorafor, Tade Thompson, Akwaeke Emezi, and Tochi Onyebuchi.

The 2024 shortlists feature an array of compelling works:

Best Speculative Novel by an African:

"The Last Day" by Antony Altseba
"The Memory of Water" by Chinelo Okparanta
"The Obsidian Blade" by Nana Nkweti
"The Shadow of the Sun" by T.L. Huchu
"The Voice of Shadows" by Tomi Adeyemi

Best Speculative Novella by an African:

"The Ballad of Black Tom" by Victor LaValle
"The Girl with the Ghost in Her Eye" by Irenosen Okojie
"The Secret Lives of the Baobab" by Nnedi Okorafor
"The Witching Hour" by Leigh Bardugo
"The Year of the Beast" by Toyin Odutola

Best Speculative Short Story by an African:

"A Hundred Thousand Lights" by Chinelo Okparanta
"An Alien in Waiyaki Way" by Peter Kimani
"Divided by Darkness" by Stephen Embleton
"The Dragon's Daughter" by N.K. Jemisin
"The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Link

Best Graphic Novel/Comic by an African:

"Black Boy Joy: Stories of Black Boyhood" by Kwame Mbalia
"The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Link and Gabi Tito
"Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" by Amy Reeder Haden and Brandon Montclare
"Ms. Marvel" by G. Willow Wilson and Adrian Alphona
"Wakanda Forever" by Nnedi Okorafor and Ta-Nehisi Coates

The Nommo Awards ceremony will take place later this year. The full list of nominees can be found on the ASFS website.

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Lady Du: From amapiano star to published author with "Fame for Business"

Lady Du, the renowned Amapiano singer and DJ known for her signature tagline "wawa," is expanding her horizons by venturing into the world of literature with her upcoming book, "Fame for Business."

According to Kaya959, the book is meticulously designed to empower aspiring artists with insights into the complexities of the music industry and the importance of financial literacy. Lady Du, a passionate advocate for financial independence among artists, has consistently emphasized the need for multiple streams of income.

In a recent Instagram post, Lady Du unveiled the news of her upcoming book, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share her knowledge and experience. "We are in the final stages of the book," she wrote. "Trust me when I say this is going to be a book to read."

LADY DU'S BOOK 'FAME FOR BUSINESS' IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!

She went on to provide a glimpse into the book's comprehensive nature, explaining that it encompasses research spanning from 1912 to 2024. Collaborating with two top research authors in the country, Lady Du has meticulously explored the evolution of music, the impact of fame on artists, and the challenges of balancing fame with business acumen.

The book's central theme revolves around the perils of pursuing fame at the expense of understanding the business aspects of the music industry. Lady Du aims to equip artists with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the entertainment world and achieve long-term financial success.

Lady Du's passion for empowering aspiring artists extends beyond her music. Through her soon-to-be-released book, she hopes to inspire a generation of young musicians to embrace both fame and business, paving the way for their artistic and financial well-being.

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NBO LitFest 2024: A star-studded showcase of African literature

The full program for the 2024 NBO LitFest has been unveiled, featuring a stellar line-up of renowned African authors, including Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo, Taiye Selasi, and Aminatta Forna. The festival will take place from June 27th to 30th, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya.

Created in 2021 by Book Bunk, NBO LitFest has quickly established itself as a major event on the international literary calendar. This year's festival will bring together over 50 local and international writers for an ambitious program of conversations, performances, and masterclasses.

The program includes:

 Masterclasses: Bernardine Evaristo on "Crafting the Novel," Shafinaaz Hassim on "Writing YA Fiction," and Mercy Juma and Beverly Ochieng on "Non-Fiction/Reportage."

 Children's Festival: A live reading session featuring Taiye Selasi, Amani Muthoni, and Sihle-Isipho Nontshokweni, as well as a kiddy masterclass on Nontshokweni's book, "Wanda the Brave."

 Main Festival: Key events include "We Need New Narratives: The African in the Diasporas" with Aminatta Forna, Taiye Selasi, and Ndinda Kioko; "Existing in Translation" with Richard Ali A Mutu, Nesrine Malik, Mia Couto, and Edwige-Renée Dro; and "Telling the Hard Stories" with Ibrahima Balde, Amets Arzallus, Sihle-Isipho Nontshokweni, and Kamwathi Peterson Waweru.

The festival will take place across three iconic public libraries in Nairobi: Kaloleni Library, Eastlands Library, and McMillan Memorial Library. The full program is available here.

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Brace Yourself for Euro 2024 with Afro Poetry Times' June Edition!

The wait is finally over! The Euro 2024 finals are upon us, and Afro Poetry Times is bringing you the best in football-inspired poetry.

In our special poem section, we delve into the highs and lows, the triumphs and heartbreaks of the beautiful game. From the roar of the crowd to the agony of defeat, our poets capture the essence of this sporting spectacle like no other.

But that's not all! Our June edition also features a captivating selection of short stories and poems that will ignite your imagination. Dive into worlds of love, loss, hope, and resilience, as our talented writers explore the human experience with raw emotion and vivid imagery.

Get your copy of Afro Poetry Times' June edition from PressReader today and immerse yourself in the world of football and literature. Brace yourself for an unforgettable reading experience as we celebrate the Euro 2024 finals in true Afro style!

Click here to get your copy from PressReader: https://www.pressreader.com/canada/afro-poetry-times/20240601

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Nigerian poets dominate in Evaristo Prize for African Poetry

Nigerian writers Derek Ehiorobo and Kyle Okeke have been crowned joint winners of the prestigious 2023 Evaristo Prize for African Poetry, formerly known as the Brunel International Prize for African Poetry. The prize, established by celebrated author Bernardine Evaristo, celebrates the artistry and diversity of African poetry.

Ehiorobo, from Lagos, captivated the judges with his poem "And God Said," praised for its "unguarded tenderness" and masterful exploration of grief.  Okeke, based in Texas but with Nigerian roots, impressed with "Butterflies," a collection of ten poems lauded for its "exquisite sense of expansiveness and restraint" and "astonishing beauty and power."

Both poets will receive $750 each, a testament to their exceptional talent. The judging panel, comprised of Gabeba Baderoon, Tjawangwa Dema, and Mahtem Shiferraw, carefully considered works from a shortlist of five finalists before selecting the winners.

In addition to the winners, the judges also acknowledged the exceptional work of .CHISARAOKWU. from California with an honorable mention, praising her mastery of language, evocative imagery, and captivating narratives.

The Evaristo Prize for African Poetry, now under the stewardship of the African Poetry Book Fund, continues its legacy of amplifying African voices in the literary world and nurturing a vibrant community of poets.

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Nominees announced for the Shirley Jackson Awards. Check them out!

The nominees for the Shirley Jackson Awards 2023 were announced on Friday, June 7, 2024. Here are the writers of African descent among them.
Shirley Hardie Jackson was an American writer known primarily for her works of horror and mystery. Her writing career spanned over two decades, during which she composed six novels, two memoirs, and more than 200 short stories. The Shirley Jackson Awards are literary awards named in recognition of her legacy in writing since 2007. They celebrate outstanding achievements in the literature of psychological suspense, horror, and dark fantasy.
The nominees for 2023 announced on Friday are;
Novel
The Reformatory, Tananarive Due (Saga Press)
Novella
Broken Paradise, Eugen Bacon (Luna Press Publishing)
To the Woman in the Pink Hat, LaToya Jordan (Aqueduct)
Short Fiction
Invasion of the Baby Snatchers, Lesley Nneka Arimah (Out There Screaming)
Single-Author Collection
Drinking from Graveyard Wells, Yvette Lisa Ndlovu (University Press of Kentucky)
Jackal, Jackal, Tobi Ogundiran (Undertow)
Out There Screaming: An Anthology of New Black Horror, Jordan Peele & John Joseph Adams, eds. (Penguin Random House)
Reactions
Drinking from Graveyard Wells is shortlisted for the Shirley Jackson Award! Previous winners include Carmen Maria Machado, Stephen King🤯I'm incredibly honoured for my work to be considered. "The Lottery" was a formative text for me. Congrats to all nominees. Thanks @KentuckyPress.
Yvette Lisa Ndlovu
**squeeeeee** I was also nominated for THE REFORMATORY! 🙂
Tananarive Due
Deeply honoured, grateful to see my novella BROKEN PARADISE by @LunaPressGlobal nominated for @ShirleyJAwards.
Eugen Bacon
Pinching myself! So excited & honoured to learn my debut novella To the Woman in the Pink Hat @AqueductPress is a nominee for the 2023 Shirley Jackson Awards in the novella category. So cool to see my name in lights on this list of talented writers.
LaToya Jordan
I'm pretty excited and honoured that JACKAL, JACKAL has been named a Shirley Jackson Award nominee. In the author's note I wrote: all I've ever wanted is to tell stories, to tell them as I like to hear them, to guide a reader into a fantastic world through the sheer magic of my words. I don't take for granted that my work is being read and honoured. This little book has collected 2 award nominations! Let's see how many wins come of it;) Thanks to my editor @undertow_books (Also, pretty fitting that a book whose tagline goes "From the Shirley Jackson award-nominated author…" gets that honour.)
Tobi Ogundiran
The winners will be announced at Readercon 33, an annual conference on imaginative literature, in Quincy Massachusetts, USA on July 13, 2024.

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Calling all poets: The Poetry Society's Stanza Competition returns with 'Counting' theme

Calling all wordsmiths! The Poetry Society's highly anticipated 2024 Stanza competition is officially open, inviting members to explore the theme of "Counting" through their creative verse.

This year's competition welcomes two unpublished poems, each with a maximum of forty lines, from eligible members.  As a special bonus, Poetry Society members affiliated with a Stanza can submit their work free of charge.

Adding to the excitement, The Poetry Society has secured the acclaimed poet Rachel Long as this year's esteemed judge.  Long's debut collection, "My Darling from the Lions," garnered widespread recognition, earning nominations for prestigious awards such as the Forward Prize for Best First Collection and The Costa Book Award.

The competition deadline is fast approaching, with submissions closing on 4 September 2024.  Mark your calendars for 3 October 2024 – National Poetry Day – when the winner will be announced across The Poetry Society's platforms.

The victorious poet will receive a coveted one-to-one feedback session with The Poetry Society, along with a treasure trove of poetry goodies. Two runners-up will also be celebrated and awarded prizes.

Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your poetic talents and join The Poetry Society in celebrating the power of language.

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