On February 6, 2026, Pushkin House in London will host an in-person Reading Group meeting dedicated to Mikhail Lermontov's novel A Hero of Our Time.
The discussion will focus on one of the key works of 19th-century Russian literature, first published in 1840 and causing a storm of controversy among contemporaries. Participants will discuss the character of Pechorin, a Byronic antihero who combines cynicism and sensitivity, arrogance and inner emptiness. Through his actions—duels, kidnappings, love affairs, and risky adventures—Lermontov creates an accurate and merciless portrait of his time.
The novel will be discussed in Martin Parker and Neil Cornwell's English translation. Other translations are also available at the Pushkin House bookshop. The edition includes the unfinished novel Princess Ligovskaya, which complements the discussion of romanticism, nihilism, and the crisis of identity in Lermontov's contemporary era.
Pushkin House
5a Bloomsbury Square, London WC1A 2TA
What Are the Objectives of the Award?
The primary goal of the Award is to support authors and promote Russian-language literature worldwide. We welcome all who write and read in Russian, regardless of citizenship or place of residence. We aim to foster a Russian-language culture free from political and imperial influences.
How Is the Award Process Conducted?
The Prize is awarded annually. The Jury holds a vote in which each member selects between one and three works. The author whose work receives the highest number of votes becomes the winner.
What Awards Are Provided?
The Prize winner receives a grant for the translation of their work into English, French, and German.
When Does the Submission Period for the Competition Start and End?
Submissions for the third season of the prize will open on July 15, 2026, and close on October 15, 2026.
When will the list of finalists and winners be announced?
On January 20, 2027, the Council of Experts will announce the shortlist. The Independent Jury will announce the winner on May 25, 2027.
What are the conditions for the nomination of a book for the award
Works published in 2025 are eligible for the third season of the competition. Eligible works (novels, novellas, short story and essay collections, documentary prose) may have been published either as standalone editions or in literary magazines. Nominations may be submitted by publishing houses and magazine editorial boards, as well as by the authors themselves or third parties (with the author's consent and written confirmation). Texts must be submitted for consideration in electronic format. The DAR Prize is open to all authors. Given the prize's main goals — promoting contemporary Russian-language literature outside of Russia — and the nature of the award itself (a translation grant), priority will be given to authors whose works have not previously been translated into English, French, or German.
