A Remarkable Achievement in Literature

Manya Wilkinson has been honored with the 2025 Wingate Literary Prize for her work, Lublin (And Other Stories, 2024). This unique collection is celebrated for its blend of fable, history, and humor, intricately woven into a coming-of-age narrative set against the historical backdrop of the 20th century’s challenges.

Announcement at Jewish Book Week

The award was presented during a ceremony at Kings Place, part of the annual Jewish Book Week. The event was chaired by Emily Kasriel, a notable author and trustee of the Wingate Foundation, who announced the results to a captivated audience.

About the Wingate Literary Prize

Now in its 48th year, the Wingate Literary Prize carries a monetary award of £4,000 and is executed in collaboration with the Jewish Literary Foundation. The prize aims to recognize the best book—whether fiction or non-fiction—that effectively communicates Jewish themes to a general audience.

Esteemed past winners of the prize include literary giants such as:

• Amos Oz
• Zadie Smith
• Oliver Sacks
• David Grossman
• Elizabeth McCracken

This Year’s Shortlist

Wilkinson’s Lublin stood out amongst a competitive shortlist, which included:

• Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner
• Cold Crematorium by József Debreczeni, translated by Paul Olchváry
• Time’s Echo by Jeremy Eichler
• Eight Bright Lights by Sara Gibbs
• Elena: A Hand Made Life by Miriam Gold

Conclusion

Manya Wilkinson’s recognition at the 2025 Wingate Literary Prize underscores her significant contributions to contemporary literature, especially in exploring Jewish narratives amidst historical complexities.