Canadian Snags Man Booker International

77-year-old short-story writer Munro 'just won us over,' judge says
By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff
Posted May 27, 2009 8:10 AM CDT
Canadian Snags Man Booker International
In this Oct. 28, 2002 file photo, Canadian author Alice Munro poses for a photograph at the Canadian Consulate's residence in New York.   (AP Photo/Paul Hawthorne, File)

Alice Munro, whose short stories the judges described as “practically perfect,” is the third winner of the $95,000 Man Booker International prize, the Guardian reports. The 77-year-old, author of 11 short story collections and one novel, is on a path to “international literary sainthood,” fellow Canadian author Margaret Atwood said last year. Munro's stories have been praised for their depth, craftsmanship, and subtle style.

“Any writer has to gawk when reading her because her work is very subtle and precise,” said judge Jane Smiley. “Her thoughtfulness about every subject is so concentrated.” Munro, who was long-listed with 13 other international authors, explores grand themes in her writing while focusing on small-town life in rural Ontario. She said she was “totally amazed and delighted” to win the award, which she will receive June 25. (More Alice Munro stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X