The Baillie Gifford Prize: Securing the future of Non-Fiction Storytelling
The prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction is currently navigating discussions regarding its future sponsorship. Current sponsor,baillie Gifford,sees its commitment expire this year,but initial conversations suggest a strong likelihood of continued support. This ensures the prize can continue championing exceptional works of non-fiction.
A Party of In-Depth Research and Compelling narratives
This award recognizes the power of well-researched, thoughtfully written non-fiction. It highlights books that illuminate our world and deepen our understanding of complex subjects. The prize plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant literary landscape.
2025 Longlist: A Diverse Range of Voices and Subjects
Twelve compelling titles have already been longlisted for the 2025 prize, showcasing a remarkable breadth of topics and perspectives. these include:
* Daughters of the Bamboo Grove by Barbara Demick
* The Finest Hotel in Kabul by Lyse Doucet
* The Last Days of Budapest by Adam LeBor
* John & Paul by Ian Leslie
* Things in Nature Merely Grow by Yiyun Li
* Between the Waves by Tom McTague
These selections represent a commitment to showcasing diverse voices and narratives. You’ll find explorations of history, current events, and personal experiences.
A Distinguished Judging Panel
A panel of esteemed judges will carefully evaluate the submissions. This year’s panel includes:
* Pratinav Anil, historian and author
* Inaya Folarin Iman, journalist and broadcaster
* Lucy Hughes-Hallett, cultural historian and previous prize winner
* Rachel Lloyd, deputy culture editor of The Economist
* Peter Parker, author and biographer
Their combined expertise guarantees a rigorous and insightful selection process.
The Selection Process: A commitment to Quality
Judges will be reviewing a substantial field of 350 books published between November 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025. This extensive review process ensures that only the most exceptional works are considered.
A Legacy of Excellence: Past Winners
The Baillie Gifford Prize has a rich history of recognizing groundbreaking non-fiction. Recent recipients include:
* John Vaillant (2023) – Recognized for his impactful work on wildfires.
* Katherine Rundell (2022) – Honored for her insightful writing.
* Patrick Radden Keefe (2021) – Celebrated for his investigative journalism.
* Craig Brown (2020) – Awarded for his captivating biography.
These past winners demonstrate the prize’s dedication to recognizing impactful and beautifully crafted non-fiction.
Why This Matters to You
As a reader, you benefit from the prize’s commitment to quality. It provides a curated selection of books that are both informative and engaging. You can trust that these titles represent the best in non-fiction writing.
The Baillie Gifford Prize isn’t just an award; it’s a vital force in promoting and celebrating the art of non-fiction storytelling. It ensures that important stories continue to be told and heard.
