The 2006 Graywolf Press Nonfiction Prize has been awarded to Ander Monson for his essay collection Neck Deep and Other Predicaments. Monson, an assistant professor of writing at Grand Valley State University, received a $12,000 advance and Graywolf will publish the book in February.
Monson's work was chosen from more than 150 submissions. Contest judge Robert Polito referred to Monson's essays as "something like a schematic for our fiercest longings and most ecstatic inventions." Graywolf Press Director and Publisher Fiona McCrae noted that they had never before read anything quite like it and want to honor and publish his originality and wit.
Monson celebrated his award with a reading on January 31, at the New School in New York. A book release party and reading in Grand Rapids is planned for Thursday, February 8 at 7 p.m. at the Schuler Books 28th Street store, with a reception to follow. Another reading will be on Sunday, February 18, at 1:30 p.m. at the Poetry Factory, in St. Joseph, Mich.
Monson is the author of the novel Other Electricities and the poetry collection Vacationland. He is also editor of the magazine DIAGRAM, see http://thediagram.com/, and the New Michigan Press.
