PRESS: Longlist Revealed, 2025 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize
“Challenging Expectations”: £10,000 Adventure Writing Prize Longlist Announced
We are delighted to announce the longlist for the £10,000 2025 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize. From historical epics to contemporary page-turners, the twelve titles selected showcase the diversity, ambition and evolving voices of adventure fiction today.
This year is the ninth awarding of the Prize and marks a significant first, with eleven of the twelve longlisted titles written by women. The longlist comprises fiction from American, British, British-Cambodian, Filipina and Jamaican authors. Their novels span centuries and continents - from ancient Babylon to future wastelands, from the streets of East London to modern-day Iraq. Together, these writers show the spectrum of adventure and, in being selected for the longlist, suggest the idea of adventure as a male-dominated genre, both in terms of authors and protagonists, is evolving.
The Prize’s longlist is curated by a dedicated panel of librarians and library staff from across the UK, who have become a cornerstone of the Prize’s commitment to reader-focused storytelling. Niso Smith, Founder, says:
“We recognise the unique insights librarians and library staff hold - they have a deep and vast understanding of literature, and know what readers are seeking and connecting with. Their dedication to promoting books that transport and inspire is clear. We’re excited that they are encouraging readers to try the books on this year's longlist.
Through these bold and brilliant novels, the twelve authors are expanding the adventure writing genre, challenging expectations, and proving - if proof were needed - that adventure belongs to everyone. Congratulations!”
Dr. Sarah Prowse, CILIP Librarian, said:
“It was such a joy to be in a room full of fellow librarians—each bringing their unique voice to help shape a longlist as diverse and adventurous as the readers it’s for. The writing we explored captured bold journeys rich with courage, endurance, and the kind of storytelling that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Whether it’s a cosy fantasy, a historical reimagining, or an epic drama, this year’s longlist invites every reader to embark on an unforgettable adventure.”
From the longlist, six titles will be selected for the shortlist before being considered by 2025’s judging panel. This year’s judges include Nathan Gray, former high-risk test pilot and one of Britain’s most decorated military aviators; Keme Nzerem, journalist, filmmaker and co-founder of Opening Up The Outdoors; Francesca de Tores, author, academic and winner of the 2024 Adventure Writing Prize; and Corinne Turner, literary IP consultant and former Managing Director of Ian Fleming Publications. Alongside an online ‘Readers’ Vote’, which will represent one seat on the judging panel, they will select the winning book.
The shortlist for the Prize will be revealed on 4th June 2025, and the winner will be announced in September at a private ceremony in London, UK.
Have you read any of these novels yet? Get in touch with us on Instagram, X and Facebook, using #AdventureWritingPrize.