Local author Sheldon Russell has been named a finalist for the 2026 Oklahoma Book Award in fiction for his latest novel, “A Rare Obsession.”
The annual awards, administered by the Oklahoma Center for the Book, recognize outstanding literary work by authors with ties to Oklahoma. Winners are selected by panels of writers, scholars, and publishing professionals. More information about the awards and event details is available at https://oklahoma.gov/.
“I just found out my latest novel, “A Rare Obsession” has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 Oklahoma Book Award in fiction,” Russell said. “I have been active in the adult reading program through the local library for years and have a number of readers in Woodward.”
In “A Rare Obsession”, newly graduated Ethan Poser takes a custodial job at a Carnegie library and soon finds himself implicated in a murder after discovering the body of his predecessor. As evidence of long-running thefts within the library’s rare book collection emerges, Ethan becomes entangled in an investigation alongside associate librarian Anna Khole. The novel explores themes of obsession, financial desperation, and criminal intrigue.
Russell is the author of multiple novels and has been recognized several times by the Oklahoma Book Awards as both a winner and a finalist. He also received the Oklahoma Center for the Book’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the state’s literary culture.
“A Rare Obsession” is available in paperback, hardcover, and large print through Cynren Press and Independent Publishers Group.
This year’s competition received 160 entries from across the state, showcasing Oklahoma’s strong literary community. Finalists represent the best in Oklahoma writing, illustration, and design across multiple categories.
The awards ceremony will be May 16 at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, OK). The event will begin with a 6 p.m. book signing and cash bar, followed by the awards ceremony and banquet dinner at 7 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the authors, purchase their books and have them signed during the evening’s festivities, according Oklahoma Department of Libraries website.
