EBRD Literature Prize Celebrates Azerbaijani Masterpiece & The Power Of Translation
Winning novel showcases how translation continues to connect cultures, preserve literary heritage and expand global appreciation of overlooked classics.
Prestigious International Recognition
THE European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has announced Akram Aylisli’s People and Trees: A Trilogy as the winner of its 2026 Literature Prize, honouring one of Azerbaijan’s most celebrated literary works nearly six decades after its original publication.
The award recognises both Aylisli and translator Katherine E. Young, who share the €20,000 prize for bringing the classic novel to English-language readers.
A Story Rooted in History & Humanity
Set in a mountain village during the aftermath of the Second World War, People and Trees explores childhood, family relationships, tradition and survival through interconnected stories narrated from a child’s perspective.
The novel reflects the social changes experienced across Soviet Azerbaijan while celebrating ordinary people whose resilience shapes community life despite hardship and loss.
Critics have praised the work for blending folklore, history and intimate storytelling into a timeless portrait of human experience.
Translation Expands Global Literary Horizons
The judges noted that Katherine Young’s English translation successfully captures the emotional richness and cultural depth of the original work, making an important contribution to world literature.
The EBRD Prize uniquely honours both writers and translators, recognising that translation plays a crucial role in ensuring literary masterpieces transcend linguistic and national boundaries.
Independent Jury Selects Winner
This year’s judging panel comprised Dr. Maya Jaggi, Dr. Marek Kohn, Professor Chigozie Obioma, and Professor Lea Ypi.
The panel described Aylisli’s work as a luminous coming-of-age narrative whose literary quality, historical insight and emotional honesty distinguished it from a highly competitive shortlist.
They also praised the two other finalists—Ice by Jacek Dukaj and On the Greenwich Line by Shady Lewis—for their originality and exceptional literary craftsmanship.
Literature, Freedom & Cultural Dialogue
Beyond recognising literary excellence, the EBRD Literature Prize continues to promote freedom of expression and intercultural dialogue.
In her address at the London awards ceremony, Dr. Jaggi referenced Chinua Achebe’s belief that writers must portray society truthfully, arguing that literature serves as both a mirror of society and a catalyst for critical reflection.
She also commended the EBRD for safeguarding the independence of the prize jury, saying that creative freedom remains fundamental to vibrant cultural and democratic societies.
Growing International Influence
Since its launch in 2018, the EBRD Literature Prize has highlighted fiction from countries across Europe, Central Asia, North Africa and the Middle East.
By recognising exceptional translations alongside original works, the award continues to broaden international understanding of diverse literary traditions while introducing outstanding authors to new generations of readers worldwide.
