Two standout authors—Edwidge Danticat, a three-time National Book Award finalist, and Morgan Thomas, a debut novelist—are among the finalists for this year’s fiction prize, offering readers a mix of established literary talent and fresh voices. The nonfiction category highlights pressing social issues, including an examination of the prison system and a deep dive into music’s cultural impact, alongside a personal exploration of queer parenthood. These finalists reflect a broad range of storytelling, from intimate narratives to sweeping analyses of society. The awards promise a showcase of compelling work across genres and perspectives.
Three-time National Book Award finalist Edwidge Danticat and debut novelist Morgan Thomas are up for the fiction prize. Nonfiction books cover the prison system and music, and queer parenthood.