Writers' Trust Announces the 2024 Finalists for Dayne Ogilvie Prize for LGBTQ2S+ Emerging Writers

The Dayne Ogilvie Prize for LGBTQ2S+ Emerging Writers is unique in the landscape of Canadian literary prizes: It is presented annually to an emerging writer who identifies as (but is not limited to) lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or Two-Spirit, for an outstanding debut book in any genre. Founded by Robin Pacific in 2007 in memory of her dear friend Ogilvie, who was a book editor, writer, arts manager and former managing editor of Xtra. The prize is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

Today, the Writers' Trust announced the finalists, nominated for debut books that demonstrate extraordinary literary potential. The $10,000 winner will be announced at the annual Writers’ Trust Awards on November 19th.  All finalists will receive $1,000, with a portion of the winnings shared in any translated works.

Dayne Ogilvie Prize for LGBTQ2S+ Emerging Writers 2024 Shortlist:

• Vincent Anioke (Waterloo, ON) for Perfect Little Angels (Arsenal Pulp Press)

• Éric Chacour (Montreal) and translator Pablo Strauss (Quebec City) for What I Know About You (Coach House Books)

• Anthony Oliveira (Toronto) for Dayspring (Strange Light)

A jury composed of authors Jillian Christmas, Adam Garnet Jones, and Hazel Jane Plante selected this year’s finalists from 26 titles submitted by 21 publishing imprints. Books published between October 1, 2023 and September 30, 2024 were eligible for submission.

“It’s important for Canadians to see themselves in the stories they read and also to be open to new perspectives,” said David Leonard, Writers’ Trust executive director. “The Dayne Ogilvie Prize helps talented LGBTQ2S+ debut writers find and expand their audience. I hope all readers feel encouraged to pick up these outstanding books, which are sure to enlighten and entertain from cover to cover.”

For more information on this year’s finalists including bios, book descriptions, and complete jury citations, visit writerstrust.com/DayneOgilvie.