Anne Michaels Wins 2024 Giller Prize for 'Held'

The award ceremony faced protests over its sponsors' ties to Israel, highlighting ongoing tensions in the arts community.

Anne Michaels' novel 'Held' won the 2024 Giller Prize, Canada's most prestigious literary award, worth $100,000.
The novel explores themes of war, memory, and hope across generations and was also shortlisted for the Booker Prize.
The Giller Prize ceremony increased security and changed its format following protests related to sponsor Scotiabank's ties with Israeli arms manufacturers.
Dozens of authors boycotted the prize, calling for divestment from companies linked to arms funding and pro-Israel causes.
Despite controversy, the event remains a significant occasion in Canadian literature, drawing notable figures from the arts and politics.