UBC Okanagan author longlisted for Giller Prize
The literary world is buzzing with excitement as UBC Okanagan author, Alix Ohlin, has been longlisted for the prestigious Giller Prize. Ohlin’s novel, “We Want What We Want”, has been recognized as one of the top 12 Canadian books of the year.
The Giller Prize, established in 1994, is one of the most coveted literary awards in Canada. It recognizes excellence in Canadian fiction and awards a grand prize of $100,000 to the winner. The longlist, announced on September 7th, includes a diverse range of authors from across the country.
Ohlin, who is also the Chair of UBC Okanagan’s Creative Writing Program, is no stranger to accolades. She has previously been shortlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize. Her work has also been nominated for the International Dublin Literary Award.
“We Want What We Want” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of happiness. It follows the lives of two sisters, one a successful lawyer and the other a struggling actress, as they navigate their own desires and the expectations of society.
In an interview with UBC Okanagan, Ohlin expressed her gratitude for being longlisted for the Giller Prize. She also shared her inspiration for the novel, stating, “I wanted to write about the ways in which we are all trying to figure out what we want and how to get it, and how that can lead us into conflict with the people we love.”
The shortlist for the Giller Prize will be announced on October 5th, and the winner will be revealed on November 8th. Ohlin’s fans and supporters are eagerly awaiting the results, and many are hopeful that she will bring home the grand prize.
This recognition of Ohlin’s work not only highlights her talent as a writer but also shines a spotlight on the thriving literary community at UBC Okanagan. It is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering creativity and supporting its faculty and students in their pursuit of excellence.
As the literary world eagerly awaits the announcement of the Giller Prize winner, we congratulate Alix Ohlin on this remarkable achievement and wish her all the best in the next stage of the competition.
