The City of Victoria and the Victoria Book Prize Society recently announced the winners of the 2024 Victoria Book Prizes, shining a spotlight on local authors Kathryn Mockler and Raina Delisle for their exceptional literary contributions. Mockler was awarded the City of Victoria Butler Book Prize for her fiction collection, Anecdotes, while Delisle received the City of Victoria Children’s Book Prize for her non-fiction work, Breaking News, Why Media Matters. Both authors were granted a prize of $5,000 each, a well-deserved recognition of their talent and dedication to their craft.
The announcement of the winners took place at the Victoria Book Prizes Gala on October 16, a prestigious event held at the Union Club of British Columbia. Mayor Marianne Alto had the honor of revealing the names of the winners, emphasizing the significance of their work in enriching the cultural landscape of the city and inspiring positive change through storytelling. The recognition of Mockler and Delisle highlights the power of literature to provoke thought, spark conversations, and foster a deeper understanding of complex issues.
Kathryn Mockler, a prolific author with five poetry books to her name and a position as a professor at the University of Victoria, was lauded for her fiction collection, Anecdotes. The book delves into darkly humorous narratives that explore themes such as sexual violence, abuse, and environmental collapse, offering readers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant reading experience. Mockler’s ability to tackle challenging subjects with sensitivity and insight has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted readership.
Raina Delisle, an accomplished journalist with a knack for storytelling, was recognized for her children’s book, Breaking News, Why Media Matters. The book serves as a valuable resource for young readers, aiming to educate them about media literacy, news consumption, and the crucial role of the press in shaping public discourse. Delisle’s engaging and informative approach to teaching children about the media landscape has been praised for its relevance and timeliness in an era of rapidly evolving communication technologies.
The Victoria Book Prizes, established in 2004, celebrate excellence in fiction and children’s literature, showcasing the diverse talents of local authors and illustrators. The prizes, a collaborative effort between the City of Victoria and Brian Butler of Butler Brothers Supplies, serve as a platform for recognizing and promoting literary excellence within the community. The annual gala event is a highlight of the literary calendar, bringing together authors, publishers, and book lovers to celebrate the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of literature on society.
For more information about the Victoria Book Prizes and the winning authors, visit victoriabookprizes.ca. Stay tuned for future announcements and events celebrating the vibrant literary scene in Victoria and beyond.