What went right this week: a triumph of people power, plus more

A new literary prize launched to help writers sidestep barriers to getting published has announced its shortlist. 

The Libraro prize reimagines how authors are discovered, giving readers, rather than industry gatekeepers, an active role in championing emerging talent.

Six unpublished novels have now been shortlisted for the award’s inaugural prize – £50,000 and a book deal with Hachette UK. Readers also receive prizes, with £10,000 going to the bookworm who discovered the winning entry.

“People power really works,” said David Roche, chairman of the Libraro literary platform. “We knew we would get an enormous amount of interest … but the quality of entries and the supportive community that has been built is enormously gratifying. We look forward to welcoming more writers and readers, and unearthing more future bestsellers.” 

The shortlist comprises: Ben Daniels’ sci-fi novel, The Last Canary; Natalie Gordon’s WWII love story, Yours, Everlasting; Donna Fisher’s lyrical fable, Sheep’s Clothing; Mary Minnock’s intimate portrayal of a broken family, Love Lost; B Robinson’s tense crime novel, An Oath of Malice; and TJ Windwood’s fantasy about a world in peril, The Lost Zodiac.

The winner will be announced on 13 May. 

Image: Marcos Paulo Prado