George Saunders Honored with National Book Award for Literary Excellence

George Saunders, the acclaimed author known for his inventive storytelling, has been awarded the National Book Award for Distinguished Contributions to American Letters. This prestigious honor recognizes his significant impact on American literature and adds him to a distinguished list of past recipients, including Toni Morrison and Robert Caro. The announcement was made on November 10, 2023, and the award comes with a prize of $10,000.

From Humble Beginnings to Literary Greatness

Saunders began his literary journey approximately three decades ago, shortly after completing a novel that his wife found nearly impossible to appreciate. Reflecting on his early perceptions of serious fiction, he noted, “I used to think the job of serious fiction was to be completely impossible to understand.” However, a shift occurred when he started creating whimsical, Seussian poems that resonated with both him and his wife. This revelation marked a turning point in his writing career, leading him to embrace entertainment as a vital component of literature.

At 66 years old, Saunders has become the youngest recipient of the award since Judy Blume in 2004. His evolution from a short story writer to a celebrated novelist is notable. His first novel, Lincoln in the Bardo, won the prestigious Booker Prize in 2017, an achievement that is rare for American authors. His upcoming novel, Vigil, set to release early next year, explores the final moments of an oil company CEO.

Celebrating a Unique Literary Voice

Ruth Dickey, executive director of the National Book Foundation, praised Saunders for his extraordinary legacy. In a statement, she emphasized his ability to create immersive worlds and deeply human characters, addressing pressing sociopolitical issues through his work. “George Saunders’ writing exemplifies the power of fiction to unite us despite — and perhaps because of — our fractured and complex world,” she said.

Deborah Treisman, fiction editor at The New Yorker, will present Saunders with his medal during a ceremony on November 19, 2023, in Manhattan. Treisman highlighted the unique collaboration they have fostered over the years, which blends humor with a profound faith in humanity. “His work can be satirical without being mean; hilarious but also heartbreaking,” she remarked.

Born in Amarillo, Texas, in 1958, and raised in Oak Forest, Illinois, Saunders did not follow a conventional path to literature. Initially majoring in geophysical engineering at the Colorado School of Mines, he found inspiration from a dedicated high school literature teacher who encouraged him to consider writing. His diverse work experiences, which included roles as a door attendant and a slaughterhouse worker, shaped his perspectives and fueled his creativity.

In 1988, Saunders earned an MFA from Syracuse University, where he has been a faculty member since 1997. His breakout collection, CivilWarLand in Bad Decline, garnered significant acclaim, being a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award and earning him several National Magazine Awards.

Beyond his literary accomplishments, Saunders has shown a commitment to kindness and social awareness. In a widely shared convocation address at Syracuse in 2013, he urged graduates to prioritize kindness in their lives. “Communication and kindness — this radical idea that other people are as real as we are,” he stated, underscoring his belief in the transformative power of literature.

As Saunders continues to garner recognition and explore new creative avenues, his contributions to literature remain impactful, resonating with readers worldwide.