Newsroom

A night with the Women's Prize

Invited experts

Erica Wagner

Deputy Editor, Comment

Erica Wagner

Deputy Editor, Comment

Join us in The Observer newsroom for an unmissable evening of conversation with some of today’s most exciting literary voices. In partnership with the Women’s Prize Trust, which has been celebrating women writers since 1996, we’ll dive into the gripping stories, creative journeys and big ideas behind this year’s fiction and non-fiction shortlists, hearing directly from two of the judges, Thangam Debbonaire and Cariad Lloyd, and a selection of the shortlisted authors, to be announced.

Hosted by The Observer's Erica Wagner, the event will explore novels that have captured our imaginations, and non-fiction books – from the deeply personal to the fiercely political – that have changed the way we think. Expect lively discussion, illuminating readings and candid insight into two prizes championing women’s voices across genres and generations.

With past winners like Maggie O’Farrell, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ali Smith, 2025’s debut sensation Yael van der Wouden (The Safekeep) and palliative care doctor and non-fiction trailblazer Rachel Clarke (The Story of a Heart), the Women's Prizes recognise the women who shape our reading lives. Join us for a night of literary discovery, reflection and inspiration.

Thursday, May 7, 2026

05:30 PM - 06:30 PM

22 Berners St

Invited experts

Erica Wagner

Deputy Editor, Comment

Erica Wagner

Deputy Editor, Comment

Join us in The Observer newsroom for an unmissable evening of conversation with some of today’s most exciting literary voices. In partnership with the Women’s Prize Trust, which has been celebrating women writers since 1996, we’ll dive into the gripping stories, creative journeys and big ideas behind this year’s fiction and non-fiction shortlists, hearing directly from two of the judges, Thangam Debbonaire and Cariad Lloyd, and a selection of the shortlisted authors, to be announced.

Hosted by The Observer's Erica Wagner, the event will explore novels that have captured our imaginations, and non-fiction books – from the deeply personal to the fiercely political – that have changed the way we think. Expect lively discussion, illuminating readings and candid insight into two prizes championing women’s voices across genres and generations.

With past winners like Maggie O’Farrell, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ali Smith, 2025’s debut sensation Yael van der Wouden (The Safekeep) and palliative care doctor and non-fiction trailblazer Rachel Clarke (The Story of a Heart), the Women's Prizes recognise the women who shape our reading lives. Join us for a night of literary discovery, reflection and inspiration.

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