13 April 2021
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The shortlists have been announced for the fifth Jhalak Prize
The Jhalak Book of the Year by a Writer of Colour 2021 shortlist is: Antiemetic for Homesickness, Romalyn Ante; Inferno, Catherine Cho; My Darling From the Lions, Rachel Long; The First Woman, Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi; Are We Home Yet, Katy Massey; Rainbow Milk, Paul Mendez.
The Jhalak Children’s & Young Adult Prize 2021 shortlist is: The GA Picture Alphabet, Nii Ayikwei Parkes & Avril Filomeno; When Life Gives You Mangoes, Kereen Getten; And the Stars Were Burning Brightly, Danielle Jawando; Queen of Freedom, Catherine Johnson; Eight Pieces of Silva, Patrice Lawrence; A Fox Called Herbert, Margaret Sturton.
‘There is much that feels precarious, fragile and all the more precious this spring, including any progress regarding equity in publishing,’ said prize director Sunny Singh. ‘However, despite the challenges, this year’s Jhalak judges have selected – with much care and affection – two incredible shortlists that exemplify resilience, rebuilding, community and joy in literature. These are books that ask painful questions, are searingly honest in their confrontation with terrible realities, and courageously shine a light on aspects of human experience that often remains hidden. In doing so they offer much needed solace, inspiration and joy… for our times and into the future.’
The winners will be announced on 25 May.
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