“I should have known better but I can’t believe the reach. I’ve had Egyptian cabinet ministers trying to get in touch with me all week. It really is a life-changing thing. Thank you again for everything you do to make this award happen. I owe you a debt I can’t ever repay, as does Canadian literature. ”
OMAR EL AKKAD
Scotiabank Giller Prize
The launch of the Giller Prize coincided with a growing recognition of Canadian authors and literature both at home and abroad. Acclaimed writers such as Alice Munro, Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje and Mordecai Richler were winning honours and accolades around the world. The time seemed ripe to celebrate the success of these and other homegrown writers within these borders, with a bold statement of support and recognition.
