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Just five books remain in the running for the Aspen Words Literary Prize, an award with one major goal in mind: to reward and recognize writers who have brought the powers of fiction to bear on the major social issues of our time — such as economic inequality, ecological crisis, immigration and other subjects thick with thorns.

Here are the books that have made this year's shortlist:

, released last November. Now they have the unenviable task of whittling until they arrive at just one work of fiction that most effectively illuminates the uncomfortable realities of its subjects — and finds the moments of hope and grace that may redeem them.

The winner of the $35,000 annual prize, doled out in partnership with NPR, is expected to be announced April 16 at a ceremony in New York City. And when the winner's name is read, they'll join past Aspen Words honorees 

 as the illustrious few to have taken home the 3-year-old award.

All of which means you've got about two months to sneak in a read and get to know some of the finalists. 

Arts and Culture

The Thread® - Books and Literary News

The Thread

Colin Dwyer

Author

The annual award, doled out in partnership with NPR, honors fiction that doesn't shy from grappling with thorny social issues. Just one of the five books remaining will win $35,000 come April.

5 finalists still have a chance at Aspen Words Literary Prize

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