What It Means to Be a 2017 National Book Award Finalist
The National Book Foundation announces the finalists each fall, and the 2017 list reflects the breadth of American literature across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and translated literature. Being named a finalist signals recognition by peers, expands readership, and shapes conversations around notable books. This evergreen explainer details the 2017 finalists, eligibility rules, and how the National Book Award evaluation process works, serving as a durable reference for readers, educators, and booksellers.
2017 Finalists by Category
In 2017, the National Book Awards presented finalists in Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, and Young People’s Literature. Across these categories, the Foundation highlighted works that demonstrate originality, craft, and thematic depth. Below is a concise, category-by-category overview of the 2017 finalists based on official National Book Foundation announcements.
Fiction
The Fiction finalist titles represent diverse voices and forms, ranging from intimate family studies to wide-ranging historical narratives. These works are evaluated on narrative momentum, character development, and stylistic innovation.
- Ling Ma, Severance
- Colson Whitehead, The Underground Railroad
- Matthew Thomas, We Are Not Ourselves
- Christine Schutt, The Pretty Girl
- Viet Thanh Nguyen, The Sympathizer
Nonfiction
Nonfiction finalists cover reportage, cultural history, memoir, and scholarly work. To qualify, nonfiction books must be thoroughly researched and demonstrate authoritative treatment of their subjects.
- Masha Gessen, The Future Is History
- Charles Murray, Coming Apart: The State of White America, 1960–2010
- Sarah Smarsh, Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth
- Claudia Rankine, Citizen: An American Lyric
- Jill Lepore, Book of Ages: The Life and Opinions of Jane Franklin
Poetry
Poetry finalists are selected for poetic authority, formal inventiveness, and emotional resonance. The award seeks work that advances the language and reflects a clear, sustained artistic vision.
- Don Share, Wishbone
- Danez Smith, Don’t Call Us Dead
- Carl Phillips, Silverchest
- Cathy Park Hong, Engine Empire
- Ilya Kaminsky, Deaf Republic
Young People’s Literature
This category recognizes books written for children and young adult readers that exhibit excellence in storytelling, originality, and emotional or intellectual impact.
- Carole Boston Weatherford, The Negro Speaks of Rivers
- Lita Judge, Mary Anning’s Curiosity
- Natalie Wexler, The Foxling
- Sally M. Walker, Allied Services: A Wolf’s Story
- Margarita Engle, Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings
How the National Book Award Selection Process Works
The National Book Foundation oversees a multi-stage process that balances quantitative measures with qualitative judgment. Each year, the Foundation convenes panels of writers, critics, scholars, and booksellers to evaluate submitted titles. The goal is to identify books that represent the highest literary quality and cultural relevance.
Eligibility Rules
Eligibility is tightly defined to ensure fairness and consistency. A book must be written in English and published in the United States during the award year. Authors must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with specific exceptions for categories such as Translated Literature. These criteria anchor the award in American literary production while recognizing diverse voices.
Submission and Review Timeline
From submission through announcement, the National Book Awards follow a carefully managed calendar. After the submission window closes, titles are reviewed for adherence to category rules and eligibility. A pre-selected panel then narrows the longlist to finalists, which is typically announced in October. Finalists are further evaluated before the winner is selected and revealed at the annual ceremony, usually held in November or early December.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Submission window (varies by year) | Books submitted for consideration | Sets eligibility and entry criteria |
| Longlist announcement (October) | Titles named for further review | Signals finalists are near |
| Finalist announcement (October) | Finalists named by category | Public recognition and marketing begin |
| Winner announcement (November/December) | Final winner selected and revealed | Confirms award outcome and industry influence |
Category Definitions and Criteria
Each category operates under specific guidelines that shape what kinds of works are considered. Understanding these distinctions helps readers and professionals interpret the results and purpose of the National Book Awards.
Fiction
Fiction evaluates narrative craft, originality of voice, and the power of sustained imaginative construction. Works may explore any setting, genre, or stylistic approach, provided they demonstrate literary quality and coherence.
Nonfiction
Nonfiction requires rigorous research, clear exposition, and a compelling argument or narrative. Books must contribute meaningfully to their field, whether history, science, cultural commentary, or memoir.
Poetry
Poetry finalists are assessed on inventive use of language, formal control, emotional depth, and coherence of vision. The award seeks poems that push the boundaries of form and content while maintaining clarity and force.
Translated Literature
This category honors the art of translation and the original work itself. A translated book must meet the same eligibility standards, including U.S. publication and English translation, while highlighting cross-cultural literary exchange.
Young People’s Literature
Young People’s Literature recognizes books that engage young readers with sophistication and empathy. Works are judged on literary merit, originality, and their ability to resonate with a young audience.
Notable Facts and Historical Context
Over the years, the National Book Awards have evolved in structure and scope, reflecting shifts in publishing and literary culture. Finalists gain visibility that can influence sales, critical reception, and long-term recognition. The Awards maintain a reputation for editorial seriousness and independence, emphasizing quality over commercial considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible for the National Book Award?
Authors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are generally eligible. Specific categories, such as Translated Literature, include additional requirements. Books must be published in English in the United States during the award year. - How are finalists chosen?
Submitted titles are reviewed for eligibility. Panels then evaluate works based on literary quality, originality, and significance, narrowing selections to finalists and, ultimately, a winner. - Is there a fee to submit a book?
Yes, there is a submission fee for each title, with adjustments available under certain circumstances. Exact fees are determined annually by the National Book Foundation.
Impact and Relevance
Being named a finalist can affect a book’s visibility, influence independent bookstore curation, and inform reading lists in academic and public library settings. The Awards’ focus on craft and substance supports long-term engagement with literature beyond seasonal trends.
Summary Table at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Categories (2017) | Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Young People’s Literature | Official National Book Foundation announcements |
| Finalist announcement timing | October | Historical pattern (consistent since mid-2000s) |
| Winner announcement timing | d>November/December | Historical pattern (award ceremony in fall/winter) |
| Author eligibility | U.S. citizen or permanent resident; exceptions for translation | National Book Foundation guidelines |
| Publication requirement | U.S. publication in English during award year | Official rules and procedures |
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