Writer, poet, and former soldier Benjamin Hertwig from Edmonton is one of the six finalists competing for the prestigious $60,000 Amazon Canada First Novel Award. His nominated work, titled “Juiceboxers,” focuses on the experiences of four young soldiers serving in Afghanistan, highlighting the challenges and complex emotions they face during their deployment.
Alongside Hertwig, Quebec's Valérie Bah is also in the running for the award with her speculative comedy “Subterrane.” This novel explores themes of marginalization, featuring queer and Black characters who find themselves overlooked in the face of urban prosperity. Bah's work promises to critique societal structures while weaving elements of humor and speculative fiction.
Another finalist, Myriam Lacroix from Vancouver, presents a genre-bending narrative titled “How It Works Out.” This novel delves into the dynamics of a lesbian couple's relationship, exploring how their story can be perceived through various alternate scenarios. Lacroix's innovative approach invites readers to contemplate the complexities of love and relationship in different contexts.
In addition to these authors, Andrew Boden from Burnaby, B.C., is recognized for his poignant novel “When We Were Ashes.” This work addresses the grim realities of disabled children in Nazi Germany, offering a historical perspective that is both haunting and thought-provoking. Boden’s narrative aims to shed light on a dark chapter of history through the lens of innocence and resilience.
Further diversifying the pool of finalists is Halifax writer David Huebert, whose novel “Oil People” chronicles a multi-generational rivalry between two families. This piece probes into themes of vengeance, family loyalty, and the consequences of long-held grudges, all set against a backdrop that reflects the speckles of oil industry influences in the region.
Lastly, Calgary’s Natalie Sue is vying for the award with her tender comedy “I Hope This Finds You Well.” This novel addresses contemporary issues of loneliness and love, particularly in our digital age, where connections are often forged and maintained through computer screens. Sue’s work promises to resonate with many readers navigating the complexities of human interaction in an increasingly tech-driven world.
The excitement for the Amazon Canada First Novel Award culminates on June 5, 2025, when the winner will be announced at a ceremony in Toronto. Each of the finalists, irrespective of the outcome, will receive $6,000, recognizing their creative contributions to Canadian literature. The competition underscores the diverse voices and stories emerging from Canada, showcasing the talents of these six promising authors.
