Now in their 19th year, the awards are presented by the National Centre for Writing, in partnership with the Eastern Daily Press and Norwich UNESCO City of Literature, with support from UEA’s faculty of arts and humanities.

This year's shortlist includes a memoir, described by Vogue as "genuinely jaw dropping", exploring fame, mental illness and wellness culture; a lyrical children's picture book about love and loss; and a celebration of 100 years of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust.

The selected writers all have strong connections to Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk or Suffolk, with many living and working in the region today.

Paula Sanchez, chief executive and creative director of the National Centre for Writing, says: "Year on year, we are delighted to see growing interest in the East Anglian Book Awards, alongside increasing support from writers, publishers, booksellers, libraries and readers across the region.

"The east of England has a remarkable literary culture. From its distinctive landscapes and rich storytelling heritage to its thriving independent publishers, festivals and writing communities, it is one of the UK's most vibrant homes for literature. This year's shortlist reflects the extraordinary breadth of writing being produced by authors with roots in the region, from fiction and poetry to history, memoir and children's books. I can't wait to discover these books and celebrate the writers behind them."

 East Anglian Book Awards 2026 shortlist

·       Family Friends by Chloe Ashby (Fig Tree)

·       About to Fall Apart by Ashley Hickson-Lovence (Faber)

·       Almost Life by Kiran Millwood........

© Norwich Evening News