George Saunders to Receive 2025 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters

Renowned author George Saunders has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. The prestigious accolade, awarded by the National Book Foundation, acknowledges an individual’s lifetime of literary accomplishments. Saunders, known for his diverse body of work including 13 books spanning different genres such as the novel “Lincoln in the Bardo” and the short story “Fox 8,” will be honoured at the 76th National Book Awards ceremony in November.

Saunders, who serves as a creative writing professor at Syracuse University, has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Booker Prize and a Guggenheim Fellowship. His forthcoming novel, “Vigil,” is highly anticipated and set for release in early 2026. Recognised for his insightful, humorous, and impactful storytelling, Saunders has left a profound mark on readers and aspiring writers alike.

David Steinberger, the chair of the National Book Foundation’s board of directors, highlighted Saunders’ unique voice and contribution to the literary landscape, praising his ability to captivate audiences and inspire fellow writers. The award underscores Saunders’ creative vision and his dedication to both his craft and the broader literary community.

The 2025 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters is a prestigious honour that has been previously bestowed upon literary luminaries such as Toni Morrison, Isabel Allende, and Ursula K. Le Guin. The recognition of Saunders’ work emphasises the enduring impact of his storytelling and his ability to connect with readers on a profound level.

Deborah Treisman, fiction editor at The New Yorker, will have the honour of presenting the medal to Saunders during the National Book Awards ceremony in New York City. The event promises to be a celebration of literary excellence, highlighting the power of fiction to inspire, engage, and unify audiences from diverse backgrounds.

Ruth Dickey, executive director of the National Book Foundation, commended Saunders for his immersive storytelling and his unwavering commitment to exploring complex societal issues through his writing. She lauded his efforts to make the writing and reading experience accessible and engaging for all audiences, underscoring the transformative power of literature in today’s world.

Saunders’ impact extends beyond his published works, as he has also been recognised for his mentorship of emerging writers and his role in nurturing the next generation of literary talent. His dedication to the craft of writing and his genuine enthusiasm for storytelling have made him a beloved figure in the literary world.

As the literary community prepares to honour George Saunders with the 2025 Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, readers and writers alike eagerly anticipate the chance to celebrate his remarkable achievements and the enduring legacy of his storytelling. Saunders’ influence on contemporary literature serves as a testament to the enduring power of words to inspire, provoke thought, and foster connections across diverse perspectives.