Kerry Group Fiction shortlist announced

KERRY Group and Listowel Writers’ Week have announced the shortlist for the Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year Award 2018.

The prize chooses the best novel written by an Irish author from February 1, 2017, to the same date in 2018.

It offers a first-prize of €15,000 to the winning author, which organisers proudly state makes it the most valuable prize available solely to writers from this country.

“Kerry Group is delighted to continue its sponsorship of the Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year Award 2018” said Kerry Group Director of Corporate Affairs Frank Hayes.

“Now in its 23rd year, this prestigious award continues to recognise Ireland’s leading literary talent.

“The five novels shortlisted for this year’s award will undoubtedly further Ireland’s international reputation and proud literary tradition.

“I commend our two adjudicators, Jane Urquhart and Alex Preston, for compiling this year’s shortlist, which showcases a rich and diverse selection of Irish writing”.

The recipient of the prestigious prize will be made known at this year’s edition of Listowel Writers’ Week on May 30.

“We were presented with an excellent longlist, yet again, this year and these five shortlisted books are a reflection of the variety and exceptional talent of the Irish novelist,” Listowel Writers’ Week Festival Chairperson Liz Dunn said.

“Our adjudicators are to be commended on their reading and consideration of over sixty novels submitted this year and in agreeing this outstanding shortlist.”