The shortlist for the 2024 Miles Franklin Literary Award has been unveiled, presenting six novels that reflect a diverse and rich tapestry of talent from the Australian literary scene. The selection includes both established and debut authors, creating a vibrant mix of literary works vying for Australia’s most prestigious literary honor.
This year’s shortlist is noteworthy for several reasons. It features a previous winner, Alexis Wright, whose novel “Praiseworthy” has garnered widespread acclaim. Additionally, the list includes a previous shortlistee, Gregory Day, as well as three debut novelists: André Dao, Sanya Rushdi, and Hossein Asgari. This diverse lineup not only reflects the depth of talent in the Australian literary landscape but also signals a shift towards greater cultural representation in the award’s shortlist.
In a significant win for independent publishers, three small literary presses stand behind five of the shortlisted novels, highlighting the vital role of smaller publishing houses in nurturing and promoting literary talent, particularly in the face of economic challenges.
Addressing the remarkable array of works in contention, the five-person panel of judges expressed their awe at the ambition, range, and experimentation displayed in this year’s selection. They noted that the novels exhibited a remarkable diversity of techniques, forms, and narrative styles, reflecting the vibrancy and dynamism of contemporary Australian writing. The judges’ statement underscored the pivotal role that these novels play in reflecting and amplifying the expressions and excitements of contemporary Australian literature.
The shortlist announcement celebrates the achievements of the selected authors and their contributions to the Australian literary landscape. Among the intriguing selections are “Anam” by André Dao, “Hospital” by Sanya Rushdi, “Wall” by Jen Craig, and “Only Sound Remains” by Hossein Asgari, which promise a captivating exploration of varied themes and subjects, further enriching the literary conversations in Australia.
Continuing her impressive literary journey, Alexis Wright has secured a place on the shortlist with “Praiseworthy”, solidifying her status as a revered figure in Australian literature. Notably, Wright’s success adds to her recent milestone of being the first person to win the esteemed $60,000 Stella Prize for literature twice, further cementing her legacy as a masterful storyteller.
The unveiling of the 2024 Miles Franklin Literary Award shortlist marks an exciting and pivotal moment in the Australian literary landscape, showcasing a compelling mix of established voices and emerging talents vying for the country’s highest literary honor. As the anticipation builds, readers and literary enthusiasts await the announcement of the winning novel, poised to celebrate the exceptional literary achievements and contributions of the talented writers within the Australian literary sphere.
