Barbara Kingsolver's Bellwether Prize for a previously unpublished work of socially or politically engaged fiction is now accepting proposals from publishers who wish to publish the book by the second prize winner. The first Bellwether winner, Kissing the Virgin's Mouth by Donna Gershten, was published last month by HarperCollins. The biennial prize consists of a $25,000 cash payment to the author of the winning manuscript and guaranteed publication by a major publisher. The intent of the award is to encourage publishers to increase their attention to politically engaged literature.
Publishers who wish to be considered must submit a written proposal to the Bellwether board of directors indicating a willingness to print 10,000 copies of the novel; monetary commitment and a plan for promotion and advertising; the name of the editor who wishes to serve as a judge; and any other criteria that demonstrates a desire to be the second Bellwether winner's publisher.
Proposals should be sent by May 1, 2001, to Bellwether Prize, c/o Frances Goldin, 57 E. 11th St., Suite 5B, New York, N.Y. 10003. The prize winner will be announced on May 1, 2002.
