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| British writer Rana Dasgupta on Commonwealth Prize shortlist |
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British Indian writer Rana Dasgupta has been shortlisted for the 2010 Commonwealth Writers' Prize to be announced in New Delhi next month. Dasgupta's Solo was adjudged the Best Book among entries from Europe and South Asia. He will now go into the final round with regional winners from Africa, the Caribbean, Canada South-East Asia and the Pacific. Finally, two books - the Best Book of the year and the Best First Book of the year - will be chosen from among the finalists from different regions. The 24-year-old prize, a joint venture of the Commonwealth Foundation and the philanthropist Macquarie Group Foundation, has over the years become one of the most prestigious literary prizes for Commonwealth writers. Mark Collins, Director of the Commonwealth Foundation, described the quality of entries this year as "absolutely outstanding". The competition in the final round would be "fierce". David Clarke, Chairman of the Macquarie Group Foundation, said, the prize was unique in giving a voice to authors who throw light on evolving social realities. Muneeza Shamsie, chair of the regional jury, said the judges were impressed by the quality of the submissions. Dasgupta's novel, which revolves around a blind, 100 year-old Bulgarian, was "remarkable for its innovation, ambition and courage as well as its elegant prose," she said. - Agencies Related Articles:
Last update: 14-03-2010 20:02
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