International Book Awards and Author Recognitions

The global literary arena is brimming with prestigious awards that recognize and celebrate exceptional writing across various genres and languages. International literary awards not only spotlight outstanding works and authors from around the world but also contribute to the rich tapestry of global literature by promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

From renowned prizes like the Nobel Prize in Literature and the Man Booker International Prize to unique honors such as the International Prize for Arabic Fiction and the European Union Prize for Literature, these awards offer a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most influential international literary awards, examining their criteria, the types of works they celebrate, and the impact they have on authors’ careers and the literary landscape at large. Whether you’re a writer aiming for global recognition or a reader seeking remarkable international works, this guide will provide valuable insights into the world of international literary accolades.

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Whether you’re seeking a book award or author recognition for personal or professional reasons, we’ve compiled a list of international literary awards authors below. We hope you’ll find opportunities that resonate with you and support your literary journey.

We have previously covered literary awards in America, literary awards in Australia, literary awards in Canada, and literary awards in the UK. If any of these countries are relevant to you, we definitely recommend checking out these award lists as well.

International Literary Awards & Recognitions

1. Alfaguara Prize

This prestigious Spanish-language literary award is given annually to a novel written in Spanish. Established in 1965 and reactivated in 1998, it is one of the most significant literary prizes in the Spanish-speaking world, promoting the rich literary tradition of the language. It is open to authors from any Spanish-speaking country. Eligible books should be full-length novels that are original and have not been previously published.

2. America Award

The America Award is given annually to an outstanding work of literature that highlights and promotes the cultural and social contributions of Hispanic communities in the United States. It is open to books written in English or Spanish that focus on themes related to Hispanic culture, history, or experiences.

Eligibility extends to both fiction and non-fiction works, including novels, essays, and poetry. The award aims to celebrate literature that provides a deeper understanding of Hispanic heritage and contributes to the broader dialogue on cultural diversity.

3. Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award

The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award is an esteemed international prize dedicated to children’s and young adult literature. Named after the renowned Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, it honors exceptional authors, illustrators, and storytelling institutions that have made significant contributions to literature for young readers.

Eligible works include books for children and young adults, spanning various genres and formats, including picture books, novels, and poetry. The prize is open to authors and illustrators from around the world, celebrating works that foster a love of reading and offer meaningful, engaging experiences for young readers.

4. Best Translated Book Award

The Best Translated Book Award honors exceptional works of literature that have been translated into English from other languages. This award celebrates the art of translation and recognizes the contribution of translators in bringing global literary voices to English-speaking audiences.

Eligible works for this award include any book that has been translated into English and published in the United States within the award’s eligibility period. The prize acknowledges excellence in both the original work and the translation, with a focus on literary merit, cultural significance, and the skillful adaptation of the text into English. The award is open to works of fiction and non-fiction, showcasing a diverse range of international literature.

5. Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service

The Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of literature, education, or culture. This prestigious award recognizes a lifetime of achievement and service in fields that enhance and enrich the cultural landscape.

Eligible recipients include authors, educators, scholars, and cultural leaders who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and impact through their work. It is not limited to specific genres or types of work but focuses on the overall influence and legacy of the recipient’s contributions.

6. Dayton Literary Peace Prize

The Dayton Literary Peace Prize is awarded to authors whose work contributes to the understanding and promotion of peace. This prestigious prize recognizes outstanding literary achievements that address issues related to conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the human condition.

Eligible works include novels, nonfiction, and poetry that explore themes of peace, conflict resolution, and social justice. The award honors both established and emerging authors whose writings have made a meaningful impact in advancing conversations about peace and reconciliation.

7. Dhahan Prize

The Dhahan Prize recognizes exceptional literary works in Punjabi and English by authors from South Asia. It celebrates outstanding contributions to literature that reflect the richness and diversity of South Asian cultures and experiences.

Eligible works include novels and poetry written in Punjabi or English, with a focus on themes related to South Asian heritage, identity, and societal issues. The prize aims to promote and honor literature that captures the essence of South Asian storytelling and fosters cross-cultural understanding. By supporting these literary achievements, the Dhahan Prize contributes to the broader appreciation of South Asian literature on the global stage.

8. EBRD Literature Prize

The European Union Prize for Literature (EUPL), established in 2009, is awarded to authors from EU member states to celebrate and promote literary excellence. This prize aims to highlight the diverse literary cultures within Europe and support the dissemination of contemporary European literature beyond national borders.

Eligible for the prize are novels, short stories, and collections of essays that have been published in one of the EU member countries. The award focuses on recognizing works that contribute to the cultural dialogue within Europe and encourage translation and international visibility for European literature.

10. Europese Literatuurprijs (European Literature Award)

The Europese Literatuurprijs (European Literature Award), established in 2011, recognizes exceptional contemporary fiction published in Dutch and Flemish. This award is presented annually to a novel or collection of stories originally written in any language but translated into Dutch or Flemish and published in the Netherlands or Belgium.

Its purpose is to celebrate the diversity of European literature and promote translated works that have made a significant impact in the Dutch-speaking literary world.

11. Folio Prize

The Folio Prize, established in 2014 and discontinued in 2018, was a prestigious British literary award aimed at recognizing exceptional fiction published in English. It was open to novels and collections of short stories from any country, provided they were published in the UK or Ireland. The prize was designed to celebrate high-quality fiction and to spotlight works of outstanding literary merit, regardless of genre or style.

12. Franz Kafka Prize

The Franz Kafka Prize is a distinguished international literary award established in 2001 to honor outstanding contributions to literature. Named after the renowned Czech writer Franz Kafka, the award is presented annually by the Franz Kafka Society. It is open to authors from around the world, recognizing exceptional work in literature that embodies Kafka’s innovative spirit and thematic depth.

To be eligible, authors must have published at least one major work that is considered a significant contribution to contemporary literature. The prize aims to celebrate authors whose writing, whether through novels, short stories, or essays, reflects a high level of originality, complexity, and relevance. The winner receives a cash award and a commemorative plaque, along with increased international recognition.

13. Golden Wreath of Struga Poetry Evenings

14. Hugo Awards

The Hugo Awards are prestigious international awards presented annually for outstanding achievements in science fiction and fantasy literature. Established in 1953, the Hugos are named after Hugo Gernsback, the founder of the science fiction magazine Amazing Stories. The awards are organized by the World Science Fiction Society (WSFS) and are often considered one of the highest honors in the genre.

Eligibility for the Hugo Awards includes works published in the previous calendar year. Categories cover a wide range of genres, including Best Novel, Best Novella, Best Novelette, Best Short Story, and more. The awards are open to authors from around the world, and nominations and winners are determined by the members of the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon).

15. International Booker Prize

The International Booker Prize is a prestigious award recognizing the best works of fiction translated into English. Established in 2005, it aims to celebrate the global reach of literature and honor both the author and the translator. Unlike the Booker Prize for original English-language works, the International Booker focuses on books that have been translated from other languages, highlighting the importance of translation in bringing international literature to English-speaking readers.

Eligible works include novels or collections of short stories that have been translated into English and published in the UK or Ireland during the eligibility period. The prize is awarded annually and recognizes the author’s contribution to the literary world as well as the translator’s skill in bringing the original text to an English-speaking audience.

16. International Dublin Literary Award

The International Dublin Literary Award is one of the world’s most prestigious literary prizes, established in 1996. It honors outstanding works of fiction written in or translated into English. The award is open to novels from any country and aims to recognize exceptional literary achievements on a global scale.

Eligibility for the award includes novels that have been published in English or have been translated into English. The prize is unique in that it is nominated by libraries worldwide, reflecting its broad international scope. Each year, a panel of judges selects the winner based on the book’s literary merit, and the prize is intended to encourage readers and support the international literary community.

17. International Latino Book Awards

The International Latino Book Awards are dedicated to recognizing the best books in English, Spanish, and Portuguese that reflect the diverse Latino experience. Established in 1999, these awards celebrate literary works by or about Latino authors, offering recognition in a variety of categories, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children’s literature.

Eligibility for the awards includes books written by Latino authors or books that prominently feature Latino themes, regardless of the language in which they are published.

18. International PEN Literary Awards

The International PEN Literary Awards are given by PEN International, a global association of writers dedicated to promoting literature and defending freedom of expression. These awards honor outstanding literary works that have been translated into English, as well as recognize authors who have made significant contributions to literature and human rights.

Eligibility for the International PEN Literary Awards includes books that have been translated into English, with categories such as the PEN Translation Prize for the best book-length translation of prose. Additionally, the awards recognize works that address human rights issues or showcase exceptional literary talent from around the world.

19. International Prize for Arabic Fiction

The International Prize for Arabic Fiction is awarded annually to a novel written in Arabic. Established in 2007, this prestigious prize aims to promote Arabic literature and recognize outstanding literary works from the Arab world. It is open to authors from any Arabic-speaking country, and the award seeks to highlight novels that offer exceptional storytelling, creativity, and thematic depth.

Eligible works include novels that were originally written in Arabic, and the prize emphasizes both literary merit and the potential for international readership. The winner of the prize receives a substantial cash award and gains significant exposure, often leading to translation into other languages and broader global recognition. The prize is supported by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage and managed by the Booker Prize Foundation.

20. International Prize for Literature of the European Union

The International Prize for Literature of the European Union was established in 2009 to celebrate and promote European literature and the diversity of literary voices across the continent. This award is open to authors from EU member states, as well as candidate and potential candidate countries. The prize highlights works of fiction that contribute significantly to the literary landscape, regardless of genre.

21. International Thriller Writers Awards

The International Thriller Writers Awards are presented annually by the International Thriller Writers (ITW) organization to recognize outstanding achievements in the thriller genre. These awards honor exceptional works of fiction in several categories, including Best Hardcover Novel, Best Paperback Original, Best Short Story, and the ITW Thriller Award for a debut novel.

Eligible works are those that fit within the thriller genre and have been published within the award’s eligibility period. Winning or being nominated for an ITW Award can significantly boost an author’s visibility and credibility within the thriller community and beyond.

22. Jan Michalski Prize

The Jan Michalski Prize is an international literary award established in 2010 by the Jan Michalski Foundation for Writing and Literature. It recognizes outstanding literary works, regardless of genre or language, that demonstrate exceptional literary quality and contribute to the enrichment of contemporary literature.

Eligible for the prize are works of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, published within the award’s eligibility period. The prize is open to authors worldwide, and the selection process involves a rigorous evaluation by an international jury.

23. Jerusalem Prize

The Jerusalem Prize is an esteemed international literary award presented every two years by the city of Jerusalem. Established in 1963, the prize honors authors whose work addresses themes of freedom, human rights, and the individual’s role in society. It is awarded to authors whose writing demonstrates a commitment to the values of democracy and human dignity.

Eligible for the Jerusalem Prize are writers from around the world whose work has made a significant impact in these areas, regardless of the genre. The prize is awarded based on the literary and moral merit of the recipient’s body of work.

24. Kiriyama Prize

25. KONS International Literary Award

The KONS International Literary Award, established in 2011, honors outstanding contributions to contemporary literature with a focus on innovative and influential works. Sponsored by the KONS Foundation, this award aims to celebrate and promote exceptional literary achievements on a global scale.

Eligible works for the KONS International Literary Award include novels, short stories, and essays from authors worldwide. By highlighting works that challenge conventions and offer fresh perspectives, the KONS International Literary Award supports the ongoing evolution of global literature and fosters a deeper appreciation for diverse voices and stories.

26. Korean Literature Translation Award

The Korean Literature Translation Award recognizes exceptional translations of Korean literary works into other languages. Established to promote the global dissemination of Korean literature, this award celebrates translators who bring Korean stories to international readers with fidelity and skill.

Eligible for the award are translated works of Korean literature, including novels, short stories, poetry, and essays. The prize aims to acknowledge the crucial role of translators in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, and it highlights the importance of Korean literary voices on the global stage.

27. Lambda Literary Awards

The Lambda Literary Awards celebrate outstanding works of LGBTQ+ literature across various genres. Established in 1988, these awards honor books that contribute to the understanding and appreciation of LGBTQ+ experiences and issues.

Eligible works include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and young adult literature, provided they feature themes or characters relevant to the LGBTQ+ community.

28. Man Booker International Prize

The Man Booker International Prize honors a living author who has made a significant impact on international literature through their body of work. Established in 2005, this prestigious prize aims to celebrate authors who have contributed to the global literary landscape, regardless of their nationality or the language in which they write.

Eligible works are evaluated based on their influence and significance in the world of literature, and the prize recognizes authors for their entire body of work rather than a single publication. The prize seeks to acknowledge those whose writing transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, enriching the global literary community.

29. Médicis Prize

The Médicis Prize is a prestigious French literary award established in 1958. It recognizes outstanding works of literature, both original and translated, published in French. The award celebrates authors who contribute significantly to French literature through exceptional storytelling and literary excellence.

Eligible for the Médicis Prize are works in various genres, including novels, essays, and poetry, by authors from around the world. While the primary focus is on French-language literature, translations of foreign works into French are also considered.

30. Milan Kundera Prize

The Milan Kundera Prize is an international literary award established in 2011 to honor significant contributions to literature. Named after the renowned Czech author Milan Kundera, the prize recognizes works that exhibit remarkable literary merit and innovation.

Eligible for the Milan Kundera Prize are authors from around the world whose works are characterized by originality and depth. The prize is awarded based on the literary quality of the work, with a particular emphasis on novels and essays that push the boundaries of literary expression.

31. Montreal International Poetry Prize

The Montreal International Poetry Prize is a prestigious literary award established to recognize outstanding poetry on a global scale. This prize is awarded for a single poem written in English, with no restrictions on the poet’s nationality or place of residence.

32. National Book Award for Translated Literature

The National Book Award for Translated Literature honors exceptional works of fiction or nonfiction that have been translated into English from other languages. Established to recognize the vital role of translation in bringing diverse global voices to English-speaking audiences, this award celebrates both the original authors and the translators who facilitate cross-cultural literary exchange.

Eligible works must be full-length books that have been translated into English and published within the eligibility period.

33. Nelly Sachs Prize

The Nelly Sachs Prize is a distinguished German literary award that recognizes authors for their exceptional contributions to literature, particularly in the realm of poetry and prose. Established in 1965 in honor of the poet Nelly Sachs, a Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate, this prize is awarded to authors whose work reflects profound human insight and artistic excellence.

Eligible candidates include authors from any language and nationality, with a focus on those whose work is distinguished by its literary merit and thematic depth. The prize aims to celebrate and promote literary works that resonate with the human experience and contribute to the global literary canon.

34. Neustadt International Prize for Literature

The Neustadt International Prize for Literature is a prestigious literary award established in 1970 by the Neustadt Foundation at the University of Oklahoma. Often referred to as the “American Nobel,” it recognizes a living author for their outstanding contribution to world literature.

Eligible for the prize are authors of any nationality whose work has had a significant impact on literature and reflects high literary standards. The prize is awarded based on the author’s body of work rather than a single book, highlighting their overall contribution to global literary culture. Winners are selected by a panel of distinguished writers and scholars, and the award includes a cash prize and a commemorative medal.

35. Nobel Prize in Literature

The Nobel Prize in Literature is one of the most prestigious and sought-after literary awards in the world. Established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, it has been awarded annually since 1901. The prize honors an author, poet, playwright, or essayist who has produced outstanding literary work, characterized by originality, depth, and universal significance.

Eligible for the prize are authors of any nationality and any language, though the prize is often awarded to those who write in widely spoken languages. The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded based on an author’s entire body of work rather than a single publication. The selection process is conducted by the Swedish Academy, which considers nominations submitted by qualified individuals and organizations from around the world. The prize includes a monetary award and a gold medal, and it is awarded at a ceremony in Stockholm.

36. Noma Award for Publishing in Africa

The Noma Award for Publishing in Africa is a prestigious literary prize that celebrates and supports outstanding African authors and publishers. Established in 1991 by the Noma Foundation, this award recognizes exceptional works of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature that contribute to the cultural and intellectual life of Africa.

Eligible for the award are books published by African authors or publishers, focusing on works that reflect the continent’s diverse cultures, histories, and experiences.

37. Ovid Prize

The Ovid Prize is an international literary award given for works of poetry that demonstrate excellence in poetic innovation and creativity. Established in 2009 and named in honor of the Roman poet Ovid, this prize aims to celebrate and recognize outstanding contributions to the field of poetry.

Eligible for the Ovid Prize are collections of poetry published in any language, although translations are also considered. The award is open to poets from around the world.

38. Paris Literary Prize

The Paris Literary Prize is an international literary award that recognizes exceptional and innovative works of fiction. Established in 2011, the prize celebrates original and creative writing from around the world.

Eligible for the Paris Literary Prize are unpublished novels or book-length works of fiction. The award is open to authors regardless of their nationality, provided that the work is written in or translated into English. The prize is designed to support emerging and established authors, offering them an opportunity for wider recognition and publication.

39. PEN Translation Prize

The PEN Translation Prize is an esteemed international literary award presented by the PEN America organization. It recognizes exceptional translations of book-length works of prose, including fiction, memoirs, and essays, into English.

Eligibility for the PEN Translation Prize includes any book-length prose work translated from another language into English, with the translation having been published within the preceding year. The award aims to honor the translators who bring literary voices from around the world to English-speaking readers, thus fostering cross-cultural literary exchange.

40. Premio de Literatura en Lengua Castellana Miguel de Cervantes

The Premio de Literatura en Lengua Castellana Miguel de Cervantes is a prestigious Spanish literary award, often referred to as the “Cervantes Prize.” Established in 1976, it is awarded annually to an author who has made a significant contribution to Spanish literature.

Eligibility for this prize includes any author who writes in Spanish, regardless of their nationality. The award recognizes an author’s entire body of work and aims to honor outstanding contributions to the literary world in Spanish. It is considered one of the most significant accolades in the Spanish-speaking literary community, celebrating authors who have enriched the cultural and literary heritage of the Spanish language.

41. Premio Juan Rulfo

The Premio Juan Rulfo is a notable literary prize awarded by the Mexican government to honor exceptional contributions to Latin American literature. Established in 1997, this award is named after the esteemed Mexican writer Juan Rulfo, renowned for his seminal works such as Pedro Páramo and The Burning Plain.

The prize is given annually to an author from Latin America who has made significant contributions to literature in Spanish. It recognizes an author’s entire body of work and aims to promote the literary heritage of the region.

42. Prémio Leya

The Prémio Leya is a prestigious Portuguese literary award that recognizes exceptional unpublished manuscripts. Established in 2008, this annual prize is sponsored by the Leya Group, one of the leading Portuguese-language publishing companies.

The award is open to authors from any country, but the submitted work must be written in Portuguese. It aims to discover and promote new literary talents by offering a substantial financial prize and facilitating the publication of the winning manuscript. The Prémio Leya has become an important platform for emerging writers and plays a significant role in the Portuguese-speaking literary world.

43. Premio Rómulo Gallegos

The Princess of Asturias Awards are prestigious Spanish awards given annually to individuals and organizations in recognition of their outstanding achievements in various fields. Established in 1981 by the Princess of Asturias Foundation, these awards are presented in several categories, including:

• Literature: Celebrates a significant literary work or contribution to literature.
• Communication and Humanities: Recognizes contributions to the fields of journalism, education, and culture.
• Social Sciences: Acknowledges achievements in the social sciences.
• Arts: Honors excellence in the visual and performing arts.
• Sports: Awards outstanding achievements in sports.
• International Cooperation: Recognizes efforts in promoting international cooperation and understanding.

The awards aim to promote and celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact in their respective fields, both within Spain and internationally. Each award includes a monetary prize and a commemorative plaque.

45. Prix Femina

The Prix Femina is a prestigious French literary award established in 1904 by a group of female journalists. It is awarded annually to an outstanding work of fiction written in French. The prize is known for celebrating literary excellence and originality, and it is one of the most significant French literary awards.

The prize is open to books written in French by authors of any nationality. The award honors a wide range of literary works, including novels, essays, and memoirs.

The Prix Femina is awarded by a jury composed of female writers, critics, and journalists, and it aims to recognize and promote high-quality French literature while also supporting emerging and established voices in the literary world.

46. Prix Femina étranger

The Prix Femina étranger is an extension of the Prix Femina, specifically designed to recognize exceptional works of foreign literature translated into French. Established in 1997, this award highlights outstanding novels and works by non-French authors, celebrating their contribution to global literature while fostering cross-cultural literary exchange.

The prize is open to works by authors of any nationality, provided their book is translated into French. The award honors novels and other literary works that have been translated into French, emphasizing the quality and impact of international literature. The Prix Femina étranger is awarded by a jury of French literary figures, including writers and critics, who assess the literary merit, translation quality, and overall contribution of the work to the French-speaking literary landscape.

47. Prix Formentor

The Prix Formentor is a prestigious international literary award that celebrates outstanding contributions to the world of literature. Established in 1961 by the Spanish publishing house Editorial Formentor, this award recognizes authors for their exceptional literary works, regardless of genre or language.

The prize is open to writers from around the world who have produced significant literary works. It is not restricted to any specific genre or language. The Prix Formentor is awarded by a distinguished panel of judges, including prominent literary figures and critics.

48. Prix Medicis

The Prix Médicis is a prominent French literary award established in 1958. It honors exceptional works of fiction and non-fiction, both original and translated. The award is aimed at celebrating and recognizing literary excellence and innovation.

The prize is open to authors from around the world. It recognizes works written in French as well as translations of significant international literature into French. The Prix Médicis is awarded by a panel of distinguished French literary critics and scholars. It is known for its focus on works that may not always be highlighted by other major awards, thus providing a platform for diverse and innovative voices in literature.

49. Prix Mondial Cino Del Duca

The Prix Mondial Cino Del Duca is a prestigious international literary and humanitarian award established in 1974 by the Cino Del Duca Foundation. It recognizes outstanding contributions that advance the understanding and promotion of human values and universal principles.

The award is given to individuals or organizations whose work has significantly contributed to the development and promotion of humanistic values, social justice, and intercultural understanding. This includes authors, scholars, and activists.

50. Queen Mary Wasafiri New Writing Prize

The Queen Mary Wasafiri New Writing Prize is a prestigious international literary award celebrating emerging talent in fiction and poetry. Established in 2011 and managed by the Wasafiri magazine at Queen Mary University of London, the prize aims to recognize and support new writers who are producing exceptional and innovative work.

The prize is open to writers from any country, regardless of their publication history. It seeks to discover and promote new voices in the literary world. Writers can submit original, unpublished short stories or poetry. There are separate categories for fiction and poetry, and the work must be in English. The award highlights the importance of discovering new literary talents and provides a platform for emerging writers to gain recognition and visibility in the literary community.

51. Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature

The Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature is a significant literary award that honors exceptional works of Jewish literature. Established in 2006 by the Sami Rohr Foundation, this prize celebrates the best contemporary Jewish writing in both fiction and non-fiction. It is awarded to books that contribute significantly to the understanding and appreciation of Jewish culture and identity.

Writers from any country are eligible, provided their work explores themes related to Jewish life, history, or culture. The prize accepts works of fiction and non-fiction that have been published in English or in translation within the eligibility period. The work should offer fresh perspectives and insights into Jewish experiences.

52. Sheikh Zayed Book Award

The Sheikh Zayed Book Award is a prestigious literary award established in 2007 by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority to honor outstanding contributions to Arabic literature and culture. Named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates, the award aims to celebrate and promote literary excellence in the Arab world and beyond.

The award is open to authors of books written in Arabic, including both Arab and non-Arab authors who engage with Arabic culture or themes. The prize recognizes works in various categories, including literature, humanities, and social studies. Eligible books must be published within the eligibility period and demonstrate exceptional quality and originality in their respective categories.

53. Siegfried Unseld Preis

The Siegfried Unseld Prize is a distinguished literary award established in 2005 by the German publishing house Suhrkamp Verlag in memory of Siegfried Unseld, a renowned German publisher. The prize is awarded every two years to recognize outstanding achievements in literature, celebrating authors whose work has made a significant impact on contemporary literature.

The prize is open to authors from around the world, regardless of nationality, who have made substantial contributions to the literary field. The award recognizes both established and emerging writers. Eligible works are those that have been published within the eligibility period and demonstrate exceptional literary quality. The focus is on books that reflect a high level of creativity and innovation in literature.

54. T.S. Eliot Prize

The T.S. Eliot Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the UK for poetry, established in 1993 by the T.S. Eliot Foundation. Named in honor of the influential poet T.S. Eliot, the prize is awarded annually for the best new collection of poetry published in the UK or Ireland.

The prize is open to poets from the UK and Ireland. Both established and emerging poets are eligible, provided their work meets the criteria. Eligible works are poetry collections that have been published within the calendar year preceding the award. The collection must be a single volume of poetry and not an anthology or collected works.

55. UAE International Award for Poets of Peace

The UAE International Award for Poets of Peace is an esteemed honor established by the United Arab Emirates to celebrate poets who contribute to themes of peace and understanding through their work. This award highlights the role of poetry in fostering global harmony and promoting a peaceful dialogue among diverse cultures.

The award is open to poets from around the world, recognizing their work in promoting peace and unity. Both established and emerging poets are eligible. Eligible entries are poetry collections or individual poems that focus on themes of peace, reconciliation, and harmony. The work must reflect a commitment to fostering understanding and bridging cultural or social divides.

56. Warwick Prize for Women in Translation

The Warwick Prize for Women in Translation is a prestigious award established to recognize and promote the work of women translators who contribute significantly to the field of literary translation. This prize highlights the vital role of women in bringing global literary voices to English-speaking audiences and encourages greater diversity in translation.

The award is open to books translated by women from any language into English. The translators themselves must be women. Eligible works are translated literary texts, including novels, short stories, poetry, and essays. The focus is on works that demonstrate excellence in translation and contribute to a greater understanding of international literature.

57. Wellcome Book Prize

The Wellcome Book Prize is an esteemed award recognizing outstanding books that engage with the themes of health, medicine, and illness. Established by the Wellcome Trust, the prize celebrates works of fiction and non-fiction that explore these topics in a compelling and thought-provoking manner, reflecting the impact of health on human lives.

The prize is open to authors from around the world who write in English. Eligible works are both fiction and non-fiction books that address themes related to health, medicine, or illness. This includes memoirs, biographies, novels, and academic works that offer insights into the human condition through the lens of medical and health-related experiences. The Wellcome Book Prize aims to foster a deeper understanding of health issues through literature, highlighting books that illuminate the complexities of medical and personal experiences while contributing to public discourse on health topics.

58. Women’s Prize for Fiction

The Women’s Prize for Fiction, established in 1996, is one of the most prestigious literary awards in the UK, dedicated to celebrating the best works of fiction written by women. It recognizes outstanding novels that offer exceptional storytelling and insight into the human experience.

The prize is open to female authors from any nationality. Eligible works are novels published in English during the eligibility period, which is usually the calendar year preceding the award. The prize is specifically for books written by women, regardless of genre or style, as long as they are novels.

The Women’s Prize for Fiction aims to spotlight diverse voices and stories, promoting literature that might otherwise be overlooked. It not only celebrates the achievements of female authors but also helps to elevate their work to a wider audience, influencing literary culture and encouraging readers to explore new and compelling narratives.

59. Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award

The Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award is an esteemed prize that honors significant contributions to literature, particularly in the spirit of the acclaimed Polish poet Zbigniew Herbert. Established to recognize and celebrate literary excellence, this award highlights works that embody the qualities and values associated with Herbert’s legacy.

The award is open to authors of any nationality who have made substantial contributions to literature. Eligible works include outstanding literary works in various genres that align with the intellectual and artistic spirit of Zbigniew Herbert. This can include poetry, prose, or essays.

The award aims to promote literature that reflects the depth, quality, and intellectual engagement that Herbert’s work exemplified. By honoring authors who contribute significantly to the literary world, the Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award seeks to sustain and promote high standards of literary achievement globally.

International literary awards are a huge honor and can be a great way to gain more exposure. However, these awards are often quite competitive. If you’re looking for a way to reach new readers now, don’t forget to check out our marketing services for authors. Remember, if you’re new to Book Cave’s retailer promotions, use code NEWAUTHOR20 to enjoy a 20% discount on your first retailer promotion with us!

Did we miss any international literary awards? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy writing!