At the end of June, there will be a presentation of Larisa Muravyova’s debut book in Berlin and a lecture on Russian literature in Vienna.
Berlin · June 17 Presentation of the book “Written in West Berlin”
On June 17 at Babel Books Berlin, the first presentation of the autofiction debut by Larisa Muravyova, a philologist and specialist in contemporary French literature, will take place. It is a text about an identity in emigration that has been split and reassembled: the personal and the political intertwine where the experience of crossing borders becomes a search for support in language. The divided “self” is reflected in the divided geography of Tel Aviv and Berlin. Together with the author — the editor of the book, poet and critic Denis Larionov.
Vienna · June 19 Lecture “Russian Literature: Suffering as Passion?”
At Babel Books Vienna, literary scholar Ekaterina Smolenskaya will examine the familiar reproaches directed at Russian literature — that it is derivative, outdated, and overloaded with trauma. The talk will focus on how dialogue with Western texts on Russian soil shaped a distinctive and dark coloring, why the world continues to read Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, and what Russian classics can offer readers today.
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.
