This year’s judges are the writers Rachel Cusk and Richard Skinner, who says: “There were many novels that impressed us, but we feel these five  shortlisted novels  A Sabbatical in Leipzig by Adrian Duncan, This Happy by Niamh Campbell, Words to Shape My Name  by Laura Mc Kenna, Threshold by Rob Doyle, Bina by Anakana Schofield  were the standouts this year for the experiment and playfulness they showed towards form and for their unique statements. Each one contained great beauty and originality – a rare combination these days.”

The winner of the €15,000 prize will be announced on Wednesday, June 2nd, as part of Listowel Writers’ Week. “Listowel Writers’ Week has always been a festival where emerging writers are encouraged and welcomed,” says Catherine Moylan, the event’s chairperson.