PEN America Literary Awards
Literary awardAbout
The PEN America Literary Awards celebrate outstanding literary achievements across various genres, including fiction, poetry, science writing, essays, biography, children's literature, and drama. Established in 1963, these awards recognize both emerging and established writers, fostering a vibrant literary community. With over 20 distinct awards and prizes annually, PEN America honors writers and translators with nearly $350,000 in recognition. These awards promote literary excellence, global discourse, and inclusivity. Notable awards include the PEN/Hemingway Award for debut novels, the PEN/Jean Stein Book Award for innovative works, and the PEN/Open Book Award for authors of color. The program encourages diverse voices and supports the publication of significant literary works, reflecting PEN America's commitment to free expression and the advancement of literature.
