The Isle of Wight Book Awards has announced the creation of the Marion Carmichael Award for Poetry in honour of its first-ever winner, who died this year.
The new category will celebrate both emerging and established poetic voices connected to the Island.
The judge for this category will be announced at a later date.
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A new poetry prize has been introduced in memory of Marion Carmichael. (Image: Medina Bookshop)
The Isle of Wight Book Awards, now in their fifth year, were founded by author Hunter Davies with the aim of encouraging Islanders to write, publish, and share their stories.
They also aim to highlight the Isle of Wight’s beauty, heritage, and creativity.
Open to books written on or about the Isle of Wight, or by authors who live on the Island for at least six months of the year, the awards welcome both first-time and experienced writers.
Self-published and traditionally published works are equally eligible, provided they were first published in 2025 and submitted in physical format.
The categories for 2026 are: fiction, non-fiction, children’s, and poetry (the Marion Carmichael Award).
The judging panel includes Kieran Larwood for children’s books, Heidi Perks for fiction, and Angela Buckley for non-fiction.
The top three entries in each category will receive certificates.
Category winners will receive £200, and one overall winner will get an additional £500.
The key dates for the awards are as follows: launch date – May 11, closing date – June 20, awards giving lunch – Tuesday, October 6.
The winners will be announced at the Island Sailing Club in Cowes, with drinks on arrival and a three-course meal.
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The Isle of Wight Book Awards is supported by Creative Island, the Isle of Wight Festival, and David and Patsy Franks.
Entrants must complete an entry form and submit three copies of their book to one of four collection points across the Island by June 20.
These copies will be offered for sale at the awards event, with proceeds going to this year’s chosen charity.
The introduction of the Marion Carmichael Award honours the legacy of an Island writer while continuing to inspire new voices across the Island.
