Caleb Azumah Nelson Wins The Dylan Thomas Prize

Award-Winning Novel “Small Worlds” by British-Ghanaian Author Caleb Azumah Nelson Claims the Prestigious Dylan Thomas Prize

Caleb Azumah Nelson, a rising star in British-Ghanaian literature, has triumphed at the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize for his sophomore novel, “Small Worlds.” The Dylan Thomas Prize, a global accolade recognizing exceptional young writers under 40, honors the creative spirit of its namesake, the renowned poet Dylan Thomas, and his impactful literary career.

Nelson, previously recognized for his debut novel “Open Water,” delivers a powerful story in “Small Worlds,” described by the judges as “anthemic.” Chair of the 2024 panel, Namita Gokhale, commented on the novel’s impact… (Here, you can seamlessly integrate the quote from the judges).

This rewrite incorporates the following changes:

• Stronger Headline: The title grabs attention and highlights both the author’s achievement and the novel’s title.
• Focus on Nelson’s Accomplishment: The first sentence emphasizes Nelson’s win.
• Flow and Conciseness: The text is reorganized for a smoother flow and avoids redundancy.
• Emphasis on “Small Worlds“: The novel’s title is mentioned more prominently.

“Amid a hugely impressive shortlist that showcased a breadth of genres and exciting new voices, we were unanimous in our praise for this viscerally moving, heartfelt novel. There is a musicality to Caleb Azumah Nelson’s writing, in a book equally designed to be read quietly and listened aloud. Images and ideas recur to beautiful effect, lending the symphonic nature of Small Worlds an anthemic quality, where the reader feels swept away by deeply realised characters as they traverse between Ghana and South London, trying to find some semblance of a home. Emotionally challenging yet exceptionally healing, Small Worlds feels like a balm: honest as it is about the riches and the immense difficulties of living away from your culture.”

Caleb Azumah Nelson was awarded the £20,000 global accolade at a ceremony held in Swansea on Thursday, 16 May. In his speech, he thanked his editor, agent, family, and partner and commended the other writers who made the prize shortlist.