honorees
In 2006, the National Book Foundation established the 5 Under 35 prize to recognize young, debut fiction writers whose work promised to leave a lasting impression on the literary landscape. 5 Under 35 has identified some of the most celebrated young writers working today. Previous honorees include Brit Bennett, Angela Flournoy, Phil Klay, Nam Le, Valeria Luiselli, C.E. Morgan, Téa Obreht, ZZ Packer, Karen Russell, Justin Torres, Claire Vaye Watkins, Tiphanie Yanique, and Charles Yu.
5 Under 35 Honorees are writers from around the world, under the age of 35, who have published their first and only book of fiction—either a short story collection or a novel—within the last five years. In addition to being recognized at an invite-only ceremony in November, the honorees are presented with a $1,000 prize. Championing young authors at the beginning of their careers is part of the Foundation’s efforts to celebrate books, promote inclusivity, and engage more readers.
5 Under 35 Honorees are selected by authors previously recognized by the National Book Foundation—either by National Book Awards or 5 Under 35 itself. Selectors maintain confidentiality until the Honorees are announced in mid-September. As Honorees are selected at the discretion of the selectors, publisher cannot nominate an honoree or submit a book for consideration.
Moderator/Emcee
Media
Jeremy O. Harris, host of 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Anelise Chen reading from So Many Olympic Exertions - 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Nathalie Handal reading for Isabella Hammad from The Parisian - 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Johannes Lichtman reading from Such Good Work. 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Bryan Washington reading from Lot. 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Ashley Wurzbacher reading from Happy Like This. 2019 5 Under 35 Celebration
Press Inquiries:
Contact Bev Rivero,
brivero@nationalbook.org
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