Sudanese-American author Safia Elhillo, has been announced as one of the finalists for the 2024 Kirkus Prize in Young Readers’ Literature category, recognized for her compelling young adult novel Bright Red Fruit.
Bright Red Fruit is a profound exploration of a young girl’s journey through the challenges of self-discovery, grappling with questions of identity, heritage, and belonging. The novel masterfully blends Elhillo’s signature poetic style with poignant storytelling, immersing readers in the emotional landscape of its protagonist. Set against the backdrop of cultural tension and personal conflict, the novel has resonated deeply with both young and adult readers alike.
Safia Elhillo’s work was selected as one of the two finalists in the Young Adult category for the Kirkus Prize, which is renowned as one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world. Judging the Young Readers’ Literature category this year are Christopher A. Biss-Brown, Michelle H. Martin, Mahnaz Dar, and Laura Simeon, who praised the exceptional quality of the finalists’ works.
According to Kirkus editor-in-chief Tom Beer, he says: “The finalists for the 2024 Kirkus Prize represent the very best of an outstanding crop of fiction, nonfiction, and young readers’ titles published in the U.S. this year.”
Established in 2014, the Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards globally, with each winner receiving a $50,000 cash prize. To be considered for the prize, books must first receive a starred review from Kirkus Reviews, a mark of excellence given to only about 10% of the books reviewed. Past winners include renowned authors such as James McBride, Jack E. Davis, and Harmony Becker.
Safia Elhillo is a Sudanese-American poet known for her written and spoken poetry. Elhillo received a BA degree from the Gallatin School at New York University and an MFA in poetry from The New School. Elhillo has performed all around the world. She has won acclaim for her work and has been the recipient of several prestigious poetry awards. Elhillo has shared the stage with notable poets such as Sonia Sanchez and has taught at Split This Rock and Tin House Summer Workshop. Currently, she is a Wallace Stegner Fellow at Stanford University.
For more information, kindly visit the Official Website.
Congratulations Safia Elhillo!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
