March 2 2023 –
Submissions are now open for the 2023 City of Vancouver Book Award. This year, the award is looking to recognize books that deepen our understanding of Vancouver, including its place on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and their rich cultures and oral traditions. The winning author will receive a $3,000 prize.
“Vancouver is home to some of the most creative and talented writers in the world, and the Vancouver Book Award is an opportunity to recognize their outstanding work that contributes to the cultural vibrancy of our city,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “I look forward to the exciting and inspiring works that will be honoured at this year’s award ceremony and the positive impact they will have on our city’s cultural landscape.”
All genres of books are welcome. To be eligible, books must have been published in 2022. The selection committee representing a variety of perspectives and experiences will select the winner and finalists based on excellence in content, illustration, design, or format.
The award presentation will take place at the Vancouver Public Library (Central Library Branch) in the fall.
“Winning the Vancouver Book Award was truly an honour. We were humbled to be chosen from among such a talented group of writers from diverse genres, and it was a privilege to be recognized for our contributions to the literary community,” said Karen Duffek, who authored the 2022 winning book, Where the Power Is: Indigenous Perspectives on Northwest Coast Art, alongside Bill McLennan, and Jordan Wilson. “We are excited for the 2023 Book Award and are looking forward to discovering new and inspiring works from writers in our city.”
Previous winners of the City of Vancouver Book Award include Michelle Good for Five Little Indians (2021) Catherine B. Clement for Chinatown Through a Wide Lens: The Hidden Photographs of Yucho Chow (2020), Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun, Karen Duffek, and Tania Willard for Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun: Unceded Territories (2019), Chelene Knight for Dear Current Occupant (2018), and Carleigh Baker for Bad Endings (2017).
The deadline for submission is April 14.