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 $5,000 prize for their outstanding achievements.
The prestigious awards were presented by Mayor Marianne Alto at the Victoria Book Prizes Gala on October 16, a glamorous event held at the Union Club of British Columbia. In her announcement, Mayor Alto praised Mockler and Delisle for their remarkable storytelling abilities, emphasizing the profound impact of their work on the community.
Kathryn Mockler, a seasoned author with five poetry books under her belt and a professor at the University of Victoria, was recognized for her darkly humorous collection, Anecdotes. The book delves into poignant themes such as sexual violence, abuse, and environmental collapse, offering readers a thought-provoking and emotionally charged reading experience.
On the other hand, Raina Delisle, an accomplished journalist, clinched the City of Victoria Children’s Book Prize for Breaking News, Why Media Matters. Delisle’s book serves as a valuable resource for young readers, educating them on media literacy, news consumption, and the crucial role of the press in shaping society. Through engaging storytelling and informative content, Delisle empowers children to navigate the complex world of media with confidence and critical thinking skills.
Established in 2004, the Victoria Book Prizes celebrate excellence in fiction and children’s literature, fostering a vibrant literary community in the city. The prizes are a collaborative effort between the City of Victoria and Brian Butler of Butler Brothers Supplies, highlighting the importance of supporting local authors and promoting a culture of reading and storytelling.
For more information on the Victoria Book Prizes and the exceptional works of Kathryn Mockler and Raina Delisle, visit victoriabookprizes.ca. Dive into the captivating worlds created by these talented authors and discover the transformative power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world around us.