Miranda July and Rachel Kushner Among Carol Shields 2025 Prize Longlist Nominees — See the Full List! (Exclusive)

Miranda July and Rachel Kushner Among Carol Shields 2025 Prize Longlist Nominees (Exclusive)

The prestigious Carol Shields Prize for Fiction has recently unveiled its longlist of nominees for 2025, bringing attention to some of the most talented women and non-binary writers in the literary world today. The prize, established in 2012 to celebrate the exceptional works of these authors, has become a significant platform for recognising their contributions to the literary landscape.

Selected by a panel of esteemed writers, the 2025 longlist features 15 authors who are in the running to win the coveted prize of $150,000. Diana Abu-Jaber, representing the prize’s jury, expressed her delight in curating this year’s outstanding selection of books, each of which offers a unique and powerful narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level.

The journey to the grand announcement on May 1 includes the unveiling of four finalists on April 3, who will each receive $12,500 for their remarkable literary achievements. The winner will be revealed at a special ceremony in Chicago, where anticipation is high as to who will claim the prestigious prize.

Among the notable nominees is Miranda July, whose book “All Fours” from Riverhead Books explores themes of reinvention and self-discovery as an artist takes an unexpected detour from a planned road trip, leading to a transformative journey that challenges societal expectations.

Rachel Kushner’s “Creation Lake,” published by Scribner, delves into the intricacies of loyalty and power as an American operative in France grapples with her allegiances amidst the enigmatic world of a philosopher and activist she observes beneath his property.

The longlist also includes a diverse array of narratives that span genres and themes, showcasing the breadth of talent within the literary community. From Eliza Barry Callahan’s exploration of Deafness in “The Hearing Test” to Oonya Kempadoo’s sea-faring adventure “Naniki,” each book offers a unique perspective and captivating storytelling.

The Carol Shields Prize serves as a platform to celebrate the rich tapestry of voices and stories crafted by women and non-binary writers, amplifying their voices and contributions to the world of literature. Through poignant narratives, powerful characters, and thought-provoking themes, these authors challenge conventions and inspire readers to view the world through a different lens.

As the literary world eagerly awaits the final announcement of the winner on May 1, the anticipation and excitement continue to build around the exceptional talent and creativity showcased in this year’s longlist nominees. The legacy of Carol Shields lives on through the enduring impact of the prize, which continues to champion and recognise the exceptional work of women and non-binary writers in fiction.

In a world where storytelling holds the power to inspire, provoke thought, and foster empathy, the Carol Shields Prize for Fiction stands as a beacon of recognition and appreciation for the diverse voices that enrich and enliven the literary landscape.