The book by the well-known journalist and political analyst Sergei Shelin (and also, according to the Kremlin, a “foreign agent”) is quite unlike either scientific or journalistic works devoted to the fate of Russia and Russians. It is an extremely subjective and polemical, but filled with many facts, story about the unique route and numerous adventures of the Russian power. The author describes the astounding internal mechanisms that time after time return this power to the path it has been following for all 570 years of its existence - from the time of Vasily the Dark, whom the author considers the founder of Russia, to Vladimir Putin. Together with the author, the reader takes a breathtaking journey through Russian modernity and the Russian past. The book is structured as answers to the many questions that arise along the way. In conclusion, Sergei Shelin talks about possible options for the country's future and what factors must come together for Russia to get off the “special path” for the first time in history.
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.
