National Book Awards to Include Non-Citizens

In a move to broaden the definition of American literature, the National Book Foundation expands eligibility for its prestigious awards.

The National Book Foundation announced that the National Book Awards will now be open to non-citizens, including immigrants and long-term residents.
This change aims to reflect a broader definition of American literature and include a wider array of voices and stories.
The eligibility expansion follows similar moves by other major literary prizes, such as the Pulitzer Prizes, which opened to non-citizens last year.
The updated criteria will apply starting with the 75th National Book Awards, with submissions opening on March 13, 2024.
The decision is part of a broader effort to recognize the contributions of immigrant authors to the American literary canon.