Overview

• The jury selected Muizenleven unanimously, praising its investigative approach and vivid storytelling that broadens how readers think about human–animal relationships.
• Meijer’s book grew from living with twenty-five former laboratory mice she took in during 2020, documenting their social bonds, habits and rituals.
• The prize includes €5,000 and an original drawing by artist Raoul Deleo as part of the award package.
• Winners were announced during a live Vroege Vogels broadcast on NPO Radio 1 from Fort Altena in Werkendam in conjunction with the Vroege Vogels festival.
• The new public prize went to ecoloog and illustrator Jeroen Helmer for Wildernis in eigen land with over 40% of votes, earning a two‑week stay at a Buitenleven residence at Kasteel Doorwerth.