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Polari Prize Draws Mass Withdrawals Over John Boyne Nomination

Organisers have defended the merit-based inclusion of Boyne’s Earth, pledging to review their selection process after protests by more than a dozen writers and two judges.

Photo composite of authors John Boyne and JK Rowling
A selection of the 2025 long list for the Polari Prize, including Earth by John Boyne.

Overview

  • John Boyne’s novella Earth was named to the 2025 Polari Prize longlist which honours LGBTQ+ writing in the UK and Ireland.
  • At least twelve of the twenty-four longlisted authors and two judges have withdrawn their submissions or resigned in protest.
  • Authors cited Boyne’s recent Irish Independent article self-identifying as a ‘fellow Terf’ and past controversy over his 2019 novel about a trans character.
  • The Polari Prize issued an official statement affirming that selections are based solely on merit and reaffirming its commitment to trans and non-binary writers.
  • Organisers said they will conduct a full review of governance and award processes ahead of the September shortlist and November winner announcements.