Debevec-McKenney wins 2026 Dylan Thomas Prize

US poet Sasha Debevec-McKenney has been awarded the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize for her debut collection, Joy Is My Middle Name (Fitzcarraldo), reports the Bookseller.

The book was chosen in a unanimous decision by the judging panel from a shortlist announced in March.

On behalf of the judging panel, chair Irenosen Okojie said, “Incredible. An exuberant, blistering collection full of life, humour and ideas. Debevec-McKenney is a ferociously gifted talent. The book is remarkable in the way it galvanises the reader with a sense of intimacy that is authentic and a voice that feels like an antidote to our tricky times.”

The £20,000 (A$37,270) prize, which celebrates exceptional literary talent aged 39 or under, was awarded at a ceremony held in Swansea on 14 May, marking International Dylan Thomas Day.

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