We are delighted to announce the Island Prize Longlist 2025

The 2025 Island Prize longlist has now been agreed; this has been the most difficult so far, because the general quality is the highest we have ever had – at one point it seemed as though we might have a longlist of more than 20 books! However, we now have a final nine, and a further ten which deserve special mentions.
Not only has the quality been exceptional, the range of subjects and styles has been exciting, with entries from all over the continent. There are some trends, in particular the increase in fantasy stories – which often draw on African mythology and folk tales – and stories about female experience and the cultural challenges felt across the continent.
Soon, of course, we will face the even greater challenge of arriving at a shortlist of three books, due on 5th May… But meanwhile, we want to celebrate the authors who have been chosen from over 150 entries.

Warmest congratulations to all who have come this far: