The winners of the 2022 Governor General’s Literary Awards were announced on November 16 by the Canada Council for the Arts.
The Sour Cherry Tree by Naseem Hrab, illustrated by Nahid Kazemi (Owlkids), won in the Young People’s Literature Illustrated Books category. The picture book follows a girl’s experience visiting her recently deceased grandfather’s home, and reminiscing about the special moments they once shared together. The book pulls from Hrab’s own memories.
“This book was made with so much love,” Hrab said in a statement. “Simply getting to create with Nahid and everyone at Owlkids Books was extraordinarily special. And now, being recognized by our peers with the Governor General’s Award is a tremendous honor.”
In the Young People’s Literature Text category, Jen Ferguson’s YA novel The Summer of Bitter and Sweet (Heartdrum) was announced as the winner. In the book, Métis teen Lou navigates her burgeoning sexuality along with complex familial relationships, including a father who was recently released from prison, over the course of a summer working at an ice cream shop. Ferguson’s book earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly.
Founded in 1936, the Governor General’s Literary Awards highlight exceptional works in Canadian literature. Each of the award winners will receive $25,000, with their respective publishers receiving $3,000. For more information about the winners, click here.
