In a bold move to champion gender equality in literary accolades, the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction has unveiled its longlist for 2026, featuring an impressive ensemble of sixteen authors, including renowned figures like Arundhati Roy and Sarah Perry. Established in 2024, this award seeks to rectify the historical underrepresentation of women in non-fiction literature, a cause that resonates now more than ever.
A Diverse Selection of Perspectives
The longlist showcases a rich tapestry of narratives that delve into pressing societal issues, ranging from personal memoirs to in-depth explorations of political and environmental themes. Among the standout entries is Arundhati Roy’s poignant memoir, *Mother Mary Comes to Me*. This work has garnered acclaim for its insightful blend of humour and wisdom, with critics lauding it as “funny, wise, candid and perceptive,” according to The Independent’s own Martin Chilton.
Sarah Perry’s *Death of an Ordinary Man* also makes a significant mark, presenting a heartfelt account of her father-in-law’s battle with illness. Further enriching the list is *Indignity: A Life Reimagined* by Albanian scholar Lea Ypi, which offers a unique family history set against a backdrop of political upheaval, demonstrating the power of personal stories in understanding broader societal contexts.
The Judging Panel and Selection Process
At the helm of the judging panel is Thangam Debbonaire, a notable figure in the UK Opera Association and former Labour shadow minister. She described the longlist as “hopeful,” reflecting a diverse array of genres including memoir, science, politics, and art. The panel also includes notable names such as Roma Agrawal, an engineer and broadcaster, alongside authors and professionals from various fields, ensuring a well-rounded and insightful selection process.
The shortlist, which will feature six of the longlisted books, is set to be revealed on 25 March 2026, with the prestigious award ceremony scheduled for 11 June 2026. The winner will receive £30,000, along with a limited-edition artwork known as the Charlotte, recognising their literary achievement.
Previous Winners and Their Impact
The Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction is a vital addition to the literary landscape, complementing its sister award, the Women’s Prize for Fiction. Previous winners include Dr. Rachel Clarke for *The Story of a Heart* and Naomi Klein for *Doppelganger*, both of whom have used their platforms to highlight critical issues through their work. This prize not only elevates female narratives but also encourages a broader discourse around the contributions of women in non-fiction writing.
The complete longlist for the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction 2026 includes:
– *Daughters of the Bamboo Grove: China’s Stolen Children and a Story of Separated Twins* by Barbara Demick
– *The Finest Hotel in Kabul: A People’s History of Afghanistan* by Lyse Doucet
– *Don’t Let It Break You, Honey: A Memoir About Saving Yourself* by Jenny Evans
– *Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health* by Daisy Fancourt
– *With the Law on Our Side: How the Law Works for Everyone and How We Can Make It Work Better* by Lady Hale
– *To Be Young, Gifted and Black: Creativity and Race in the 21st Century* by Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason
– *Artists, Siblings, Visionaries: The Lives and Loves of Gwen and Augustus John* by Judith Mackrell
– *Ask Me How It Works: Love in an Open Marriage* by Deepa Paul
– *Death of an Ordinary Man* by Sarah Perry
– *The Genius of Trees: How Trees Mastered the Elements and Shaped the World* by Harriet Rix
– *Hotel Exile: Paris in the Shadow of War* by Jane Rogoyska
– *Mother Mary Comes to Me* by Arundhati Roy
– *Finding Albion: Myth, Folklore and the Quest for a Hidden Britain* by Zakia Sewell
– *To Exist As I Am: A Doctor’s Notes on Recovery and Radical Acceptance* by Grace Spence Green
– *Nation of Strangers: Rebuilding Home in the 21st Century* by Ece Temelkuran
– *Indignity: A Life Reimagined* by Lea Ypi
Why it Matters
The Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction is more than just an award; it is a powerful statement about the importance of female voices in literature. By recognising the contributions of women writers, the prize not only highlights the need for gender parity within literary circles but also serves as a beacon for aspiring authors. As these narratives continue to emerge, they enrich our understanding of the world, fostering empathy and dialogue around critical issues facing society today. This year’s longlist promises to ignite conversations that matter, inviting readers to engage with diverse perspectives that challenge the status quo.
