A recent study published in the journal NeuroImage, has shown that regular reading affects brain structure. People who read actively and enjoy reading have differences in two regions of the left hemisphere: the anterior temporal lobe and the Heschl's gyrus, which is connected to the auditory cortex. These regions play a key role in language processing.
Active readers have a more developed anterior temporal lobe in the left hemisphere compared to the right hemisphere. This makes it easier to understand words and contributes to better reading skills. In addition, thicker cortex in the Heschl's gyrus is associated with better reading performance, confirming the importance of quality perception of sounds and their integration into words.
Scientists emphasize that the brain has plasticity that allows its structure to adapt to new skills. For example, people who intensively study a foreign language have an increase in cortical thickness in the areas of the brain associated with language processing. This confirms that reading can change the structure of the brain, especially in areas responsible for speech perception and understanding.
To keep your brain healthy, experts recommend reading as often as possible.
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.
