The prestigious Carol Shields Prize for Fiction revealed its 2025 winner in an exclusive announcement made by PEOPLE. Canisia Lubrin was awarded the top honour at a live event held at the Chicago History Museum on May 1. Established as the largest English-language literary prize in the world dedicated to women and non-binary authors, the award recognises outstanding novels, short story collections, and graphic novels published in the United States and Canada.
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Lubrin received this esteemed recognition for her work on “Code Noir,” a literary piece published by Knopf Canada/Soft Skull Press. In addition to the title of winner, she will be presented with a prize of $150,000 and a five-night stay at the Fogo Island Inn as an acknowledgment of her literary achievements. Notably, Lubrin’s previous works, including “Voodoo Hypothesis” and “The Dyzgraphxst,” have earned her accolades such as the Griffin Poetry Prize, OCM Bocas Prize, and the Writers’ Trust of Canada Rising Stars award.
The jury responsible for selecting Lubrin as the winner comprise of distinguished members such as Diana Abu-Jaber, Norma Dunning, Kim Fu, Tessa McWatt, and Jeanne Thornton. In a collective statement shared with PEOPLE, the jury lauded “Code Noir” for its multi-dimensional narrative that traverses through the realms of past, present, and future, exploring themes of suffering, communion, and metamorphosis. The jury praised Lubrin’s ability to intertwine real and speculative storytelling while shedding light on the legacies of slavery, colonialism, and violence.
Alexandra Skoczylas, the CEO of the Carol Shields Prize Foundation, extended warm congratulations to Lubrin for her exceptional achievement with “Code Noir.” The Foundation highlighted the groundbreaking nature of Lubrin’s work and emphasised its selection from a competitive shortlist of finalists. Among the finalists were renowned names such as Dominique Fortier, Rhonda Mullins, Miranda July, Sarah Manguso, and Aube Rey Lescure, each of whom will receive a prize of $12,500.
As part of their recognition, all finalists, including Lubrin, are invited to partake in a group retreat residency at the Leighton Artist Studios, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. This opportunity not only celebrates their literary contributions but also fosters a collaborative environment for continued growth and inspiration. The importance of such recognition in the literary world cannot be overstated, as it shines a light on diverse voices and narratives that enrich the fabric of storytelling.
In a time where representation and inclusion are at the forefront of conversations, awards like the Carol Shields Prize for Fiction play a vital role in amplifying marginalized voices and celebrating their contributions to literature. The 2025 edition of the prize not only acknowledges outstanding literary works but also honours the talent and dedication of women and non-binary authors in shaping the literary landscape. The legacy of Carol Shields, an acclaimed author known for her insightful and poignant storytelling, lives on through this prestigious award that continues to inspire and empower writers around the globe.
The significance of recognising and celebrating women and non-binary authors in the literary world cannot be understated. Awards like the Carol Shields Prize for Fiction serve as a platform to elevate diverse voices, honour exceptional talent, and foster a community of support and encouragement within the literary landscape. Canisia Lubrin’s win in 2025 stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of narratives that challenge, inspire, and resonate with readers worldwide.