Republic of Consciousness Prize, US & Canada Announces Its 2025 Shortlist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2026
5 Books from Small, Independent Presses Advance to the 2025 Shortlist
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced its fourth annual shortlist of 5 titles from independent presses, celebrating the commitment of small presses to exceptional works of literary merit.
The 5 shortlisted titles for 2025 are:
Dreaming of Dead People, by Rosalind Belben (And Other Stories)
Little Lazarus, by Michael Bible (CLASH Books)
The Remembered Soldier, by Anjet Daanje, translated by David McKay (New Vessel Press)
The Endless Week, by Laura Vazquez, translated by Alex Niemi (Dorothy, a publishing project)
Hothouse Bloom, by Austyn Wohlers (Hub City Press)
The Prize will distribute a total of $35,000 USD to 2025 finalists as follows: each press with a longlisted book will receive $2,000; the five shortlisted books will be rewarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator where applicable.
The winner of the 2025 Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, will be announced on Tuesday, March 10.
A virtual party celebrating the longlist, with publishers, authors, and translators, was held on Wednesday, February 18. You can review a recording of that event here. Titles of our 2025 finalists can be purchased here through Bookshop.org in support of your favorite independent bookstore.
The Republic of Consciousness Prize for the UK and the Republic of Ireland was founded in 2017 by award-winning novelist Neil Griffiths. It has since been renamed the Queen Mary Small Press Fiction Prize. The Prize’s remit was expanded in 2022 by Griffiths and bookstore owner and writer, Lori Feathers, who launched a separate award for presses in the US and Canada.
Alongside Feathers, four other independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts formed the jury that selected this year’s shortlist, including Ryan Farrell (VOLLMANNIA, Washington, D.C.), Sarah Kalsbeek (Eyes on Indie, Chicago, Illinois), Ian McCord (Rec Room Books, Athens, Georgia), and Spencer Ruchti (Third Place Books, Seattle, Washington).
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the Prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
Republic of Consciousness Prize, US & Canada Announces Its 2025 Longlist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2026
10 Books from Small, Independent Presses Acknowledged for Literary Merit
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced its fourth annual longlist of 10 titles from independent presses, celebrating the commitment of small presses to exceptional works of literary merit.
The 10 longlisted titles for 2025 are:
Dreaming of Dead People, by Rosalind Belben (And Other Stories)
Little Lazarus, by Michael Bible (CLASH Books)
The Remembered Soldier, by Anjet Daanje, translated by David McKay (New Vessel Press)
On Earth As It Is Beneath, by Ana Paula Maia, translated by Padma Viswanathan (Charco Press)
Little World, by Josephine Rowe (Transit Books)
Iris and the Dead, by Miranda Schreiber (Book*hug Press)
Small Scale Sinners, by Mahreen Sohail (A Public Space Books)
The Endless Week, by Laura Vazquez, translated by Alex Niemi (Dorothy, a publishing project)
Hothouse Bloom, by Austyn Wohlers (Hub City Press)
Unfinished Acts of Wild Creation, by Sarah Yahm (Dzanc Books)
The Prize will distribute a total of $35,000 USD to 2025 finalists as follows: each press with a longlisted book will receive $2,000; the five shortlisted books will be rewarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator where applicable.
A virtual party celebrating the longlist, with publishers, authors, and translators, will take place on Wednesday, February 18, at 6:00 p.m. CT. Members of the public are invited to join for free on Zoom. The shortlist of five books will be announced on Tuesday, February 24, and the winner will be announced on Tuesday, March 10. Longlisted titles can be purchased here through Bookshop.org in support of your favorite independent bookstore.
The Republic of Consciousness Prize for the UK and the Republic of Ireland was founded in 2017 by award-winning novelist Neil Griffiths. It has since been renamed the Queen Mary Small Press Fiction Prize. The Prize’s remit was expanded in 2022 by Griffiths and bookstore owner and writer, Lori Feathers, who launched a separate award for presses in the US and Canada. About this year’s longlist Feathers said, “This year's longlist exemplifies the founding intention of the Prize: to highlight that today's most interesting and fulfilling literature comes from small, independent publishers. The fiction that presses submitted in this fourth year of the Prize is varied, exceptional, and a reminder that great art requires the dedication of a community of writers, translators, publishers, and readers. It is not just a worthwhile pursuit, but a vital one.”
Alongside Feathers, four other independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts formed the jury that selected this year’s longlist:
“It’s been an absolute privilege to enjoy each entry and now share with readers the best writing that small presses have to offer, especially at a time when we’ve rarely been in greater need of serious fiction.” —Ryan Farrell (VOLLMANNIA, Washington, D.C.)
“More than ever, we need deep thinkers and nuanced stories, and small presses have both the patience and the courage to seek out and propel those creative minds and their work into our world. It has been a privilege to encounter ten superb storytellers and their presses through this year’s longlist.” —Sarah Kalsbeek (Eyes on Indie, Chicago, Illinois)
"From the seed of an original thought to the book in my hands, each writer, translator, and publisher has offered me the chance to peek into the lives and worlds just off my personal radar, for which I am quite grateful." —Ian McCord (Rec Room Books, Athens, Georgia)
"Judging for the Republic of Consciousness Prize has introduced me to many publishers I might never have encountered otherwise, and has, wonderfully, broadened the range of publisher colophons I now seek out in bookstores. My most significant reading experiences of the year came from these books." —Spencer Ruchti (Third Place Books, Seattle, Washington)
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the Prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
Our 2024 Winner is Announced
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2025
Open Letter Wins Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada
The third annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, which
celebrates the commitment of independent presses to fiction of exceptional literary merit, has
announced its 2024 winner:
Open Letter for Melvill, by Rodrigo Fresán, translated from the Spanish by Will Vanderhyden.
About the winning title, Prize judge Dorian Stuber says, "Opening Rodrigo Fresán’s Melvill, readers will know from the array of footnotes on the first few pages that this book is for the head. But the further they get into its gorgeous prose, so dizzyingly translated by Will Vanderhyden, the more they will see that it’s also for the heart. Fresán imagines the future whaler and scribbler as a boy, loitering at the foot of his father’s sickbed, listening to the man tell fevered stories of his life, stories the boy will later mine for his works. How satisfying that the tale of how one of the great American writers came to be, should be told by an Argentinian who has lived for decades in Spain. For Melville, like the United States itself, belongs to everyone.
And now, thanks to Open Letter, so does Melvill."
Judge Luis Alberto Correa says of the Prize as a whole, "What a joy it was to survey the best work from publishers who put themselves out on the line every day with daring and bold literature. Though the award may be for US and Canadian publishers, we were able to read books from around the world, from many walks of life—and even a few from a different century—with new turns of phrase and perspectives that push the bounds of what a book can do. I hope this award can put a spotlight not only on these particularly spectacular titles but further invites readers to explore the rest of what these amazing authors, translators, and presses have published and what is yet to come."
Judge Chris Via adds,"Being a part of the Republic of Consciousness Prize was a wonderful reminder of the brilliance and importance of writers and translators, the courage of publishers, and the diversity of readers. Reading the books closely, discussing them enthusiastically, and, as the candidates narrowed, debating them passionately, was an experience only rivalled by the thrilling discovery of writers and presses. Literature is, indeed, thriving—but we must look to the small presses and independent bookstores to find it."
“Serving as a judge for this year’s Republic of Consciousness Prize has truly been a pleasure,” says judge Rebekah Rhine. “I am proud to celebrate authors from across the world who are experimenting with literary forms and the publishers who are bringing these authors’ books to North American readers. Reading across this tremendous field has made me feel closer to my independent bookselling roots and reminded me how many exciting books are published each year by so many amazing publishers, and how privileged I am to be able to press these books into the hands of eager readers every day.”
A total of $35,000 US will be distributed to the ten presses, authors, and translators named as finalists for the Prize. Each press included in the longlist will receive $2,000. The five shortlisted books will be awarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between the publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator, where applicable.
A jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts judged the 2024 Prize:
Luis Alberto Correa (White Whale Bookstore, Pittsburgh), James Crossley (Leviathan Bookstore, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Rebekah Rine (Watermark Books & Cafe, Wichita), Dorian Stuber (Hendrix College, Little Rock), and Chris Via (Leaf by Leaf lit vlog, North Carolina).
A virtual party to celebrate the longlist with publishers, authors, translators, and members of the public was held on February 19. You can view a recording of that event here.
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize:
The Republic of Consciousness Prize was founded in 2017 by award-winning British novelist Neil Griffiths, who said at the time, “Small presses are a vital element in sustaining the biodiversity of literary culture. Without them, fiction of the highest literary merit, especially experimental and innovative writing, would struggle to find a home, and by extension readers’ choice would be impoverished.”
The Republic of Consciousness Prize in the United States and Canada was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to publishers, authors, and translators are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
@usrofc.bsky.social
2024 Shortlist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025
$35,000 Republic of Consciousness Prize for Independent Presses in United States and Canada Announces Shortlist
Five Books from Small, Independent Presses Advance to the 2024 Shortlist
The third annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced its shortlist of 5 titles from independent presses for the 2024 Prize, celebrating the commitment of small presses to exceptional literary merit. The shortlist includes a range of novels written in English and other languages.
The five shortlisted titles are:
Like a Sky Inside by Jakuta Alikavazovic, translated by Daniel Levin Becker (Fern Books)
Melvill by Rodrigo Fresán, translated by Will Vanderhyden (Open Letter)
Lesser Ruins by Mark Haber (Coffee House Press)
The Case of Cem by Vera Mutafchieva, translated by Angela Rodel (Sandorf Passage)
Your Absence is Darkness by Jón Kalman Stefánsson, translated by Philip Roughton (Biblioasis)
A total of $35,000 USD will be distributed to the presses and the authors. Each press with a longlisted book will receive $2,000. Five shortlisted books will be rewarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator where applicable.
The winner of the 2024 Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada will be announced on Wednesday, March 12.
A virtual party celebrating the longlist with publishers, authors,translators, and members of the public was held on February 19. You can view a recording of that event here:
The Republic of Consciousness Prize was founded in 2017 by award-winning novelist Neil Griffiths, who said at the time, “Small presses are a vital element in sustaining the biodiversity of literary culture. Without them, fiction of the highest literary merit, especially experimental and innovative writing, would struggle to find a home, and by extension readers’ choice would be impoverished.”
Originally restricted to books published in the UK, the Prize’s remit was expanded in 2022 by Lori Feathers, who launched a separate award for the US and Canada. About this year’s shortlist, she says: “After enthusiastic debate and discussion our Prize jury made the difficult decision to advance these five remarkable books from our longlist. We celebrate the small presses, languages, and perspectives that this shortlist represents.”
A jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts selected the 2024 Prize finalists:
Luis Alberto Correa (White Whale Bookstore, Pittsburgh), James Crossley (Leviathan Bookstore, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Rebekah Rine (Watermark Books & Cafe, Wichita), Dorian Stuber (Hendrix College, Little Rock), and Chris Via (Leaf by Leaf lit vlog, North Carolina).
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
@usrofc.bsky.social
Our 2024 Longlist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2025
$35,000 Republic of Consciousness Prize for Independent Presses in United States and Canada Announces Longlist
10 Books from Small, Independent Presses Acknowledged for Literary Merit
The third annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced its longlist of 10 titles from independent presses for the 2024 Prize, celebrating the commitment of small presses to exceptional literary merit. Chosen from scores of submissions, the longlist includes a range of novels written in English and other languages.
The ten longlisted titles are:
Like a Sky Inside by Jakuta Alikavazovic, translated by Daniel Levin Becker (Fern)
To & Fro by Leah Hager Cohen (Bellevue Literary Press)
Melvill by Rodrigo Fresán, translated by Will Vanderhyden (Open Letter)
Lesser Ruins by Mark Haber (Coffee House Press)
Tidal Lock by Lindsay Hill (McPherson & Company)
Overstaying by Ariane Koch, translated by Damion Searls (Dorothy, a publishing project)
The Case of Cem by Vera Mutafchieva, translated by Angela Rodel (Sandorf Passage)
Your Absence is Darkness by Jón Kalman Stefánsson, translated by Philip Roughton (Biblioasis)
Gifted by Suzumi Suzuki, translated by Allison Markin Powell (Transit Books)
Lublin by Manya Wilkinson (And Other Stories)
A total of $35,000 USD will be distributed to the presses and the authors. Each press with a longlisted book will receive $2,000. Five shortlisted books will be rewarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator where applicable.
A virtual party celebrating the longlist, with publishers, authors, and translators, will take place on Wednesday, February 19 at 6pm CT. Members of the public are encouraged to join for free on Zoom. The shortlist of five books will be announced on Thursday, February 27 and the winner announced on Wednesday, March 12.
The Republic of Consciousness Prize was founded in 2017 by award-winning novelist Neil Griffiths, who said at the time, “Small presses are a vital element in sustaining the biodiversity of literary culture. Without them, fiction of the highest literary merit, especially experimental and innovative writing, would struggle to find a home, and by extension readers’ choice would be impoverished.”
Originally restricted to books published in the UK, the Prize’s remit was expanded in 2022 by Lori Feathers, who launched a separate award for the US and Canada. About this year’s longlist, she says: “In its third year, the Prize continues to grow in the number of submissions received from extraordinary small presses in the United States and Canada. As our longlist demonstrates, the work of independent publishing is vibrant and diverse. We are proud to include books in translation, works of innovative storytelling, and publishers new to our longlist.It's a great time to celebrate the work of these publishers, authors, and translators”
The longlist was selected by a jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts: Luis Alberto Correa (White Whale Bookstore, Pittsburgh), James Crossley (Leviathan Bookstore, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Rebekah Rine (Watermark Books & Cafe, Wichita), Dorian Stuber (Hendrix College, Little Rock), and Chris Via (Leaf by Leaf lit vlog, North Carolina).
“It's been a privilege to work with the other judges under Lori's leadership to create this longlist. How fitting for a prize celebrating the small publishers that bring new stories to readers that each of the books on the longlist foregrounds the act of storytelling itself.” –Dorian Stuber
“Having been involved with the ROC Prize for multiple years, I can attest that the output of small presses in North America is growing both in quantity and in quality.” — James Crossley
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate@usrofc.bsky.social
January Newsletter
The most recent email from the ROC judges features highlights from this year’s submission list, novels from Japan and the United States. It also announced the impending release of the ROC Prize longlist.
December Newsletter
Another month, another email featuring highlights from this year’s submission list. Among the books that currently have the ROC judges buzzing are novels from Bulgarian, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Subscribe to the newsletter on the Republic of Consciousness website and consider making a donation today on Giving Tuesday.
November Newsletter
November 1, 2024
The ROC judging panel has sent another email missive featuring select titles that have been under discussion. These include works from France, Catalonia, and the United States.
Further details about these novels can be found in this month’s newsletter; interested readers can subscribe on the Republic of Consciousness website.
The announcement of the ROC Prize longlist is expected in late January.
October Newsletter
October 1, 2024
The Republic of Consciousness Prize email newsletter today shared highlights from this year’s submission list, representing a small fraction of the many titles under consideration. The Prize saw a fifty percent increase in the number of participating publishers this year, and plans to bring attention to as many of them as possible even before the longlist is decided.
Three books that have surfaced during the judging panel’s early discussions are Melvill by Rodrigo Fresán (translated by Will Vanderhyden) from Open Letter, Lublin by Manya Wilkinson from And Other Stories, and To & Fro by Leah Hager Cohen from Bellevue Literary Press., all of which focus to considerable extent on fictional children.
Further details about these novels can be found in this month’s newsletter; interested readers can subscribe on the Republic of Consciousness website.
Our 2024 Judges
August 1, 2024
The judges for this year’s award were announced in the US Republic of Consciousness Prize email newsletter. They are Luis Alberto Correa, James Crossley, Lori Feathers, Rebekah Rine, Dorian Stuber, and Chris Via. More information about each of them is available on the US RoC website.
Judge Chris Via’s Leaf by Leaf YouTube channel offered a video introduction to the 2024 Prize.
Submissions remain open until Friday, August 30th.
2024 Submissions Open
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2024
Submissions for the 2024 Prize are now open! The submission window closes August 30, 2024.
Calendar Year 2024 Submissions Criteria (read carefully as our criteria has changed):
To be eligible the small press must meet each of the following:
The average annual net revenue of the small press, based on the two preceding years, must be less than US $750,000.00 (excluding arts grants).
The small press must be established in the US or Canada and dedicated to publishing new, literary fiction as its main creative aim.
The small press must be an independent financial body, defined as: an entity not wholly or partly owned by any other financial body or business, or sharing costs within a group or partnership, even if the group or partnership comprises other presses. (Exception may be possible in the case of a small press under common ownership with an affiliated, independent bookstore.) The prize was set-up to support presses taking financial risks by supporting creatively challenging work and cannot reward business that received financial benefit or favour from other commercial interests. For the sake of clarity support from arts grants do not fall under this restriction.
To be eligible the small press’s submission must meet each of the following:
The submitted book must be first published in the calendar-year of the prize in physical form.
No digital-only work.
Only one new novel or short stories collection by a single author, per publisher for the 2024 calendar-year.
No self-published work.
The book must be in English or translated into English.
ENTRY INFORMATION
Only one entry per press.
Entry requires a completed submissions form and a pdf of the work.
Opening date for receipt of submissions forms is July 1, 2024.
Closing date for receipt of submissions forms is August 30, 2024.
Once notified that your submission has been accepted, five physical copies of the work must be provided no later than November 1, 2024.
Announcing the 2023 Winner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2024
City Lights Publishers Wins Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada
The second annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, designed to celebrate the commitment of independent presses to fiction of exceptional literary merit, has announced its winner of the 2023 Prize: City Lights Publishers for its submission of Lojman, by Ebru Ojen, translated by Aron Aji and Selin Gökçesu.
Founder of the Republic of Consciousness Prize US and Canada and Jury Chair, Lori Feathers, said: “On behalf of the Prize jury, I congratulate City Lights Publishers, author Ebru Ojen, and translators Aron Aji and Selin Gökçesu for this arresting novel set in Turkish Kurdistan. We believe that Lojman and its journey to North American readers exemplifies the passion, vision, and risk-taking for which the Prize was founded. It is our hope that this recognition will bring new readers to Ms. Ojen’s work and foster City Lights’ commitment to surprising and original fiction.”
A total of $35,000 USD will be distributed to the presses, authors, and translators named as finalists for the Prize. Each press included in the longlist will receive $2,000. The five shortlisted books will be awarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between the publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator, where applicable.
The Prize finalists were selected by a jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts: James Crossley (Leviathan, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Zoe Grams (Upstart & Crow, Vancouver), Amanda Qassar (Warwick’s, La Jolla), and Paul Wilson (literary podcaster, Colorado).
A public Zoom party celebrating the longlist with publishers, authors, and translators took place on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. A video recording of that program can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCGElxd7f3U
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize in the United States and Canada was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Twitter: @USRofC
5 Books Advance to 2023 Shortlist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 5, 2024
$35,000 Republic of Consciousness Prize Announces Shortlist of Small Presses in United States and Canada
Five Small Press Fiction Books Advance to Shortlist
The second annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced its shortlist of five books from small presses for the 2023 Prize, designed to celebrate the commitment of independent presses to fiction of exceptional literary merit.
Chosen from the ten-title longlist announced on January 30, 2024, the shortlist includes original English language and translated fiction published by small publishers in the US and Canada during calendar year 2023.
The five shortlisted books and their independent presses are:
The Long Form, by Kate Briggs (Dorothy, a publishing project)
Two Sherpas, by Sebastián Martínez Daniell, translated by Jennifer Croft (Charco Press)
The Birthday Party, by Laurent Mauvignier, translated by Daniel Levin Becker (Transit Books)
Lojman, by Ebru Ojen, translated by Aron Aji and Selin Gökçesu (City Lights Publishers)
The Box, by Mandy-Suzanne Wong (Graywolf Press)
A total of $35,000 USD will be distributed to the presses, authors, and translators. Each press included in the longlist will receive $2,000. The five shortlisted books will be awarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between the publisher and author, or publisher, author, and translator, where applicable.
The winner of the 2023 Prize will be announced on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.
Founder of the Republic of Consciousness Prize US and Canada and Jury Chair, Lori Feathers, said: “It was difficult to narrow our superb longlist to a five-title shortlist. But after careful deliberations, our jury determined that these books best exemplify the creativity and risk taking that makes the work of small publishers so indispensable in today’s literary landscape.”
The Prize finalists were selected by a jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts: James Crossley (Leviathan, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Zoe Grams (Upstart & Crow, Vancouver), Amanda Qassar (Warwick’s, La Jolla), and Paul Wilson (literary podcaster, Colorado).
A public Zoom party celebrating the longlist with publishers, authors, and translators took place on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. A video recording of that program can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCGElxd7f3U
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize:
The Republic of Consciousness Prize in the United States and Canada was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to publishers, authors, and translators are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Twitter: @USRofC
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Twitter: @USRofC
Our 2023 Longlist!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 30, 2024
$35,000 Republic of Consciousness Prize Announces Longlist of Independent Presses in United States and Canada
10 Fiction Books from Small, Independent Presses Acknowledged for Literary Merit
The second annual Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, has announced their longlist of 10 fiction titles from independent presses for the 2023 Prize, designed to celebrate the commitment of small presses to exceptional literary merit. Chosen from dozens of submissions, the longlist includes a range of novels and short story collections, including those written in English or another language.
The ten longlist titles are:
Cross Stitch, by Jazmina Barrera, translated by Christina MacSweeney (Two Lines Press)
The Long Form, by Kate Briggs (Dorothy)
Two Sherpas, by Sebastián Martínez Daniell, translated by Jennifer Croft (Charco Press)
Breaking and Entering, by Don Gillmor (Biblioasis)
Your Love is Not Good, by Johanna Hedva (And Other Stories)
Landscapes, by Christine Lai (Two Dollar Radio)
The Birthday Party, by Laurent Mauvignier, translated by Daniel Levin Becker (Transit Books)
Lojman, by Ebru Ojen, translated by Aron Aji and Selin Gökcesu (City Lights)
The Box, by Mandy-Suzanne Wong (Graywolf Press)
The Sorrows of Others, by Ada Zhang (A Public Space)
A total of $35,000 USD will be distributed to the presses and the authors. Each press with a longlisted book will receive $2,000. The five shortlisted books will be rewarded an additional $3,000 each, split equally between the publisher and author, or publisher, author and translator where applicable.
A Zoom party celebrating the longlist, with publishers, authors and translators, will take place on Tuesday, February 27 at 6pm CT. Members of the public are encouraged to join for free by registering here. The shortlist of five books will be announced on Tuesday, March 5 and the winner announced on Tuesday, March 19.
Founder of the Republic of Consciousness US & Canada Prize and Jury Chair, Lori Feathers, said: “In this, our second year honoring small publishers in the United States and Canada, we are excited to once again celebrate the accomplishments of independent presses. These longlisted titles highlight the indispensable role of small publishers in bringing books to print that expand the idea of great literature, privileging exceptional writing over commercial sales. Their work demonstrates courage and a commitment to ensuring that fiction of the highest quality and imagination finds its readers.”
The longlist was selected by a jury of independent booksellers and small press enthusiasts: James Crossley (Leviathan, St. Louis), Lori Feathers, Chair (Interabang Books, Dallas), Zoe Grams (Upstart & Crow, Vancouver), Amanda Qassar (Warwick’s, La Jolla) and Paul Wilson (literary podcaster, Colorado).
“It was an honor and a pleasure to sit on this year's US Republic of Consciousness Prize jury. I'd anticipated some excellent reading, but the quality and range of submissions was higher and broader than I could have imagined. I discovered books with challenging content, formal daring, and good old-fashioned storytelling chops--almost every literary taste was represented. The number of superb translations was a particular highlight; our small presses should take pride in the outsized part they play in drawing the world closer.” — James Crossley
“Stories that change our perceptions of desire, of motherhood, of community, of art, of trauma, of colonialism, of loss: this longlist represents the depth and creativity of literary fiction and the hugely dedicated teams behind small presses who share it. With the increasing homogenization of culture, there’s never been a better time to celebrate the important stories that small presses share—or the style and beauty with which they do so.” — Zoe Grams
“What an honor to have my doors of reading perception dilated by this provocative assemblage of extraordinary books. Every publisher on this longlist deserves mad accolades for taking a chance on risky writing—lifting up unconventional, but utterly essential, perspectives on the messy business of existence. This is truly affecting literature: surprising, galvanic, and often unsettling work that takes no prisoners in holding up a crystalline mirror to the human condition. I am in awe of the intrepid mettle of these small presses.” — Amanda Qassar
“It has been exciting and encouraging to discover some of the fascinating and important books currently being produced by small publishers. This longlist encompasses a wide range of styles, subjects, and voices, and is a snapshot of the important and exciting work that is being done, often under the radar. To anyone out there who feels discouraged about the state of publishing, I encourage you to spend some time with these authors and their books - you won't regret it!” — Paul Wilson
About the Republic of Consciousness Prize
The Republic of Consciousness Prize in the United States and Canada was founded in 2022 and is run by volunteers. All prize monies to authors and publishers are funded by donations from members of the public. Donations can be made to the prize here.
For further information, or for an interview about the Prize, contact:
Lori Feathers, lori@interabangbooks.com
www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Donate at: https://www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Twitter: @USRofC
Submissions now open for the 2023 Republic of Consciousness Prize, US & Canada
Read below to determine if you qualify and if so, request a submission form from our website today! Completed submission forms must be received by August 31, 2023.
Calendar Year 2023 Submissions Criteria (read carefully as our criteria has changed):
To be eligible the small press must meet each of the following:
The average annual net revenue of the small press, based on the two preceding years, must be less than US $750,000.00 (excluding arts grants).
The small press must be established in the US or Canada and dedicated to literary fiction as its main creative aim.
The small press must be an independent financial body, defined as: an entity not wholly or partly owned by any other financial body or business, or sharing costs within a group or partnership, even if the group or partnership comprises other presses. (Exception may be possible in the case of a small press under common ownership with an affiliated, independent bookstore.) The prize was set-up to support presses taking financial risks by supporting creatively challenging work and cannot reward business that received financial benefit or favor from other commercial interests. For the sake of clarity support from arts grants do not fall under this restriction.
To be eligible the small press’s submission must meet each of the following:
The submitted book must be published in the calendar-year of the prize in physical form.
No digital-only work.
Only one novel or short stories collection by a single author, per publisher for the 2023 calendar-year.
No self-published work.
The book must be in English or translated into English.
ENTRY INFORMATION:
Only one entry per press.
Entry requires a completed submissions form and a pdf of the work.
Opening date for receipt of submission form is July 1, 2023.
Closing date for receipt of completed submission form is August 31, 2023.
Once notified that your submission has been accepted, five physical copies of the work must be provided no later than November 1, 2023.
And the winner is…..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2023
REPUBLIC OF CONSCIOUSNESS PRIZE, US & CANADA
ANNOUNCES THE WINNER OF ITS 2022 PRIZE
We are pleased to announce that the winner of the 2022 Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, is God’s Children Are Little Broken Things: Stories by Arinze Ifeakandu. A Public Space Books.
“I want to congratulate Arinze Ifeakandu and publisher A Public Space Books for winning the inaugural Republic of Consciousness Prize for small presses in the United States and Canada. God’s Children Are Little Broken Things is a story collection that impresses readers with its satisfying, emotional depth, immersive depiction of contemporary Nigeria, stylistic grace, and sensually rich writing. It exemplifies the creativity and diverse storytelling that we crave from gifted authors and their exceptional publishers who are committed to introducing unique and enduring literary fiction to curious readers.”
Prize Director and Co-Owner, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers
The aim of the prize is to support small presses for their on-going commitment to work of high literary merit. Most often it is the small publishers who take the largest creative and financial risks and yet, in a purely financial sense, they are least able to do so.
The prize fund for the 2022 awards is $35,000, of which $20,000 will be distributed equally among the ten presses on the longlist. The remaining $15,000 will be split equally among the five titles on the shortlist: 50% to the press, 50% to the author, or where applicable 1/3 each to the press, author, and translator. The winner gets bragging rights.
For more information about the prize, see our website: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Follow us on Twitter: @USRofC
To donate, go to: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Our 2022 Shortlist!
We are pleased to announce the shortlisted titles for the 2022 Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, based upon submissions received from eligible small publishers of literary fiction.
Blood Red by Gabriela Ponce, translated from the Spanish by Sarah Booker. Restless Books.
God’s Children Are Little Broken Things: Stories by Arinze Ifeakandu. A Public Space Books.
A New Name, Septology VI-VII by Jon Fosse, translated from the Norwegian by Damion Searls. Transit Books.
Pollak’s Arm by Hans von Trotha, translated from the German by Elisabeth Lauffer. New Vessel Press.
The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr. Coach House Books.
The aim of the prize is to support small presses for their on-going commitment to work of high literary merit. Most often it is the small publishers who take the largest creative and financial risks and yet, in a purely financial sense, they are least able to do so.
“The quality of submissions for this, our inaugural year, was extraordinary. It says much about the novelty and creative range of small press literary fiction that we can highlight these superb, longlisted titles.” Prize Director and co-owner, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers
"What an honor to be on the inaugural Republic of Consciousness Prize committee. Celebrating small presses in this fashion will shine a much-needed spotlight, and I for one am excited to see this award gain followers in the coming years." Judge and co-owner, Exile in Bookville, Javier Ramirez
“This has been a joy. The small press landscape in the US and Canada is as rich as the UK’s. There are more than a few books here I will be lobbying to win. You know the field is strong when you find yourself arguing with yourself.” Judge and Founder of the UK Republic of Consciousness Prize, Neil Griffiths
"Small presses are a vital part of our literary ecosystem, and I'm delighted to play a part in the inaugural Republic of Consciousness Prize, an endeavor that will bring well-deserved exposure and support to the work of these fine presses in the United States and Canada. Reading this year's submissions, I've been extremely impressed by the artistry, energy, and often mind-blowing creativity of the authors put forward by their respective presses. Serving as a judge for this year's prize has been a complete pleasure and privilege." Judge and award-winning author, Ben Fountain
The prize fund for the 2022 awards is $35,000, of which $20,000 will be distributed equally among the ten presses on the longlist. The remaining $15,000 will be split equally among the five titles on shortlist: 50% to the press, 50% to the author, or where applicable 1/3 each to the press, author and translator. The winner gets bragging rights.
For more information about the prize, see our website: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Follow us on Twitter: @USRofC
To donate, go to: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
Our 2022 Longlist!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 24, 2023
REPUBLIC OF CONSCIOUSNESS PRIZE, US & CANADA
ANNOUNCES ITS LONGLIST TITLES FOR THE 2022 PRIZE
We are pleased to announce the longlisted titles for the 2022 Republic of Consciousness Prize, United States and Canada, based upon submissions received from eligible small publishers of literary fiction.
Blood Red by Gabriela Ponce, translated from the Spanish by Sara Booker. Restless Books.
Family Album: Stories by Gabriela Alemán, translated from the Spanish by Dick Cluster and Mary Ellen Fieweger. City Lights Books.
Get ‘em Young, Treat ‘em Tough, Tell ‘em Nothing by Robin McLean. And Other Stories.
God’s Children Are Little Broken Things: Stories by Arinze Ifeakandu. A Public Space Books.
Moldy Strawberries: Stories by Caio Fernando Abreu, translated from the Portuguese by Bruna Dantas Lobato. Archipelago Books.
New Animal by Ella Baxter. Two Dollar Radio.
A New Name, Septology VI-VII by Jon Fosse, translated from the Norwegian by Damion Searls. Transit Books.
New and Selected Stories by Cristina Rivera Garza, translated from the Spanish by Sarah Booker, Lisa Dillman, Francisca González Arias, Alex Ross, and the author. Dorothy, A Publishing Project.
Pollak’s Arm by Hans von Trotha, translated from the German by Elisabeth Lauffer. New Vessel Press.
The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr. Coach House Books.
The aim of the prize is to support small presses for their on-going commitment to work of high literary merit. Most often it is the small publishers who take the largest creative and financial risks and yet, in a purely financial sense, they are least able to do so.
“The quality of submissions for this, our inaugural year, was extraordinary. It says much about the novelty and creative range of small press literary fiction that we can highlight these superb, longlisted titles.” Prize Director and co-owner, Interabang Books, Lori Feathers
"What an honor to be on the inaugural Republic of Consciousness Prize committee. Celebrating small presses in this fashion will shine a much-needed spotlight, and I for one am excited to see this award gain followers in the coming years." Judge and co-owner, Exile in Bookville, Javier Ramirez
“This has been a joy. The small press landscape in the US and Canada is as rich as the UK’s. There are more than a few books here I will be lobbying to win. You know the field is strong when you find yourself arguing with yourself.” Judge and Founder of the UK Republic of Consciousness Prize, Neil Griffiths
"Small presses are a vital part of our literary ecosystem, and I'm delighted to play a part in the inaugural Republic of Consciousness Prize, an endeavor that will bring well-deserved exposure and support to the work of these fine presses in the United States and Canada. Reading this year's submissions, I've been extremely impressed by the artistry, energy, and often mind-blowing creativity of the authors put forward by their respective presses. Serving as a judge for this year's prize has been a complete pleasure and privilege." Judge and award-winning author, Ben Fountain
The prize fund for the 2022 awards is $35,000, of which $20,000 will be distributed equally among the ten presses on the longlist. The remaining $15,000 will be split equally among the five titles on shortlist: 50% to the press, 50% to the author, or where applicable 1/3 each to the press, author and translator. The winner gets bragging rights.
For more information about the prize, see our website: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com
Follow us on Twitter: @USRofC
To donate, go to: www.republicofconsciousnessprize-usa.com/donate
And Other Stories’ submission “Get ‘Em Young, Treat ‘Em Tough, Tell ‘Em Nothing” featured on “Across the Pond” podcast
Writer Robin McLean discusses her new short story collection, Get'em Young, Treat'em Tough, Tell'em Nothing.