Emmanuelle Erny Wins Ottawa Book Prize – ONFR
Emmanuelle Erny Awarded Ottawa Book Prize for Powerful Exploration of Trauma
Ottawa author Emmanuelle Erny received the prestigious Ottawa Book Prize on November 16, 2023, for her compelling novel, The Art of Losing. The award, announced at a ceremony held at Ottawa City Hall, recognizes excellence in literary fiction and non-fiction by Ottawa-based authors.
The Art of Losing delves into the complex aftermath of intergenerational trauma, specifically focusing on the experiences of a family grappling with the legacy of residential schools in Canada. The novel is praised for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of grief, resilience, and the search for healing. Erny’s work offers a powerful and necessary contribution too the ongoing national conversation surrounding reconciliation.
The judging panel, comprised of literary experts, lauded Erny’s skillful storytelling and the emotional depth of her characters. They highlighted the book’s ability to confront challenging truths with both honesty and compassion. According to the Ottawa Festival of Literary Arts, the judges were notably impressed by the novel’s lyrical prose and its profound exploration of the human condition.
Erny’s novel is a testament to the power of literature to illuminate the darkest corners of our history and to offer hope for a more just future.
About Emmanuelle Erny
Emmanuelle Erny is an Ottawa-based writer whose work often explores themes of identity, memory, and social justice. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing and has previously published short stories in several literary journals. The Art of Losing is her debut novel.
The Ottawa Book Prize includes a cash award of $10,000, providing crucial support for Erny’s continued writing career. She is now eligible to compete for the Ontario Literary Awards, further elevating her profile within the Canadian literary landscape.
| Award | Recipient | Work | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ottawa Book Prize | Emmanuelle Erny | The Art of Losing | november 16,2023 |
The Art of Losing is available for purchase at major bookstores and online retailers. Readers interested in exploring themes of trauma, reconciliation, and the enduring power of the human spirit will find this novel a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience.