As of March 12, 2025, the winner of the 2025 Stella Prize has not yet been announced. The longlist was revealed on March 4, 2025, and the shortlist is scheduled for announcement on April 8, 2025, with the winner to be declared on May 23, 2025.
The Stella Prize, established in 2012, is a prestigious Australian literary award that celebrates and recognizes the writing of women and non-binary authors. It aims to highlight the contributions of these writers to literature and to address gender imbalances in the literary world. The prize is awarded annually to the author of the best work of literature, regardless of genre, written in English by an Australian woman or non-binary writer.
The 2025 longlist comprises twelve remarkable works spanning fiction, non-fiction, and poetry:
1. "Peripathetic" by Cher Tan (Nonfiction, NewSouth Publishing)
An exploration of contemporary diasporic experiences, examining identity, belonging, and the concept of home.
2. "The Thinning" by Inga Simpson (Fiction, Hachette)
A novel set in a near-future Australia grappling with environmental degradation, focusing on personal and collective resilience.
3. "The Burrow" by Melanie Cheng (Fiction, Text Publishing)
A story delving into the complexities of urban life, community, and the hidden connections between individuals.
4. "Naag Mountain" by Manisha Anjali (Poetry, Giramondo)
A poetry collection intertwining mythology and personal narrative, offering a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion.
5. "Rapture" by Emily Maguire (Fiction, Allen & Unwin)
A novel exploring themes of love, faith, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
6. "Cactus Pear For My Beloved" by Samah Sabawi (Memoir, Penguin Random House)
A memoir reflecting on love, displacement, and the enduring spirit of those living in conflict zones.
7. "Always Will Be" by Mykaela Saunders (Fiction, University of Queensland Press)
A narrative intertwining Indigenous Australian perspectives with contemporary issues, highlighting resilience and cultural continuity.
8. "Black Convicts" by Santilla Chingaipe (Nonfiction, Scribner Australia)
An investigative work uncovering the overlooked histories of Black convicts in Australia's colonial past.
9. "Language of Limbs" by Dylin Hardcastle (Fiction, Pan Macmillan)
A novel exploring physicality, communication, and the unspoken languages between people.
10. "Theory & Practice" by Michelle de Kretser (Fiction, Text Publishing)
A narrative examining the intersections of personal life and intellectual pursuit, questioning the boundaries between theory and lived experience.
11. "Black Witness" by Amy McQuire (Nonfiction, University of Queensland Press)
A powerful account shedding light on Indigenous Australian experiences and the ongoing struggles for justice and recognition.
12. "Translations" by Jumaana Abdu (Fiction, Penguin Random House)
A novel navigating the challenges of translation, both linguistic and cultural, in a globalized world.
Predicting the winner is inherently speculative, as each of these works offers unique contributions to literature. However, certain titles have garnered notable attention:
"Theory & Practice" by Michelle de Kretser
De Kretser is a renowned author with a history of literary acclaim. Her latest work continues to receive critical praise for its insightful narrative and stylistic excellence.
"Black Witness" by Amy McQuire
McQuire's non-fiction work addresses pressing social issues and provides a profound exploration of Indigenous experiences in Australia, resonating with contemporary discussions on justice and equity.
"Rapture" by Emily Maguire
Maguire's novel has been highlighted for its engaging storytelling and exploration of universal themes, capturing readers' imaginations.
The diversity of genres and themes in this year's longlist reflects the richness of Australian literature. From explorations of identity and belonging to examinations of historical narratives and environmental concerns, these works collectively showcase the depth and breadth of contemporary writing.
The Stella Prize not only recognizes literary excellence but also plays a crucial role in amplifying voices that have historically been underrepresented. By celebrating works by women and non-binary authors, the prize contributes to a more inclusive and equitable literary landscape.
As we await the announcement of the shortlist and, subsequently, the winner, readers and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to explore these longlisted titles. Engaging with these works offers an opportunity to experience the diverse narratives and perspectives that define and enrich Australian literature today.
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