Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence

The award, initiated by donors of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation to honor Mr. Gaines, is designed to inspire and recognize rising African-American writers of excellence.

Submission must be be a work of fiction (novel or collection of short stories) that is published between January 1 and December 31 of the previous year. Galleys for a publication the previous year are also accepted.

The nominee must be a rising author, not yet widely recognized for their work.

Author must be an African-American U.S. citizen.

Self-published books will not be accepted. Self-published defined as publishing one's work independently and at one's own expense.

The winning author must be willing to attend the award ceremony in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and participate in media and educational outreach activities during that week.

Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence

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