Before the Earthquake shortisted for the East Midlands Book Award
Monday, 28th February 2011
It has been announced that Before the Earthquake by Maria Allen has been shortlisted for the inaugural East Midlands Book Award.
Set in southern Italy at the turn of the twentieth century, Before the Earthquake follows fifteen-year-old Concetta, who wakes from a coma following a devastating earthquake to find that she is pregnant, with no memory of the father’s identity. Called ‘spellbinding’ by the Guardian, the novel was also shortlisted for last year’s Desmond Elliott Prize.
Maria’s novel is one of eight books of prose and poetry shortlisted for the prize, most of which are published by independents, including Shod by Mark Goodwin (Nine Arches) and The Rain Diaries by Rosie Garner (Salt).
Poet and broadcaster Ian McMillan – one of the judges for the prize – commented that the shortlist ‘shows the quality of prose and poetry being created in the East Midlands. At a time when the publishing business seems to be more and more London-centric, it’s great to see the so-called regions leading the way in new writing.’
The winner of the inaugural East Midlands Book Award will be announced on Monday 20th June at the Lowdham Book Festival.
