FACULTY NEWS: Samuel Kọ́láwọlé Shortlisted for Caine Prize for African Writing
MFA in Writing faculty and VCFA alumnx Samuel Kọ́láwọlé (WP ‘19) has been shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing, “one of the most prestigious and coveted literary awards for African writers,” for the short story “Adjustment of Status” (New England Review).
For nearly 25 years, the Caine Prize for African Writing has honored and highlighted exceptional short stories by African authors. For the 2024 awards, the shortlist of five authors, including Kọ́láwọlé, was selected from 320 entries across 28 countries.
Of the award and recognized short story, Samuel Kọ́láwọlé said:
“‘Adjustment of Status” tells the story of Folahan, an undocumented immigrant working at an American morgue and how he gets deported. It’s a story about family, shame, and loneliness. I have been thinking a lot about migration, displacement, the idea of home, movements, and journeys for a few years now, so I consider “Adjustment of Status” to be in conversation with some of my other works, particularly my debut novel The Road to the Salt Sea.
After many years of writing short stories, this recognition feels both validating and encouraging. I am grateful for the honor.”
The winner of the Caine Prize for African Writing will be announced September 17, 2024. Learn more about Kọ́láwọlé at samuelkolawole.com, and read Kọ́láwọlé’s debut novel, The Road to the Salt Sea, here.