2023 WINNER: FICTION

Sheila Heti, Pure Colour

Published by Knopf Canada

"Sheila Heti’s novel is a philosophical and mystical exploration of grief, love, art, and God. The book poses a thought-provoking question: What if God is a painter, and the current world is just one version of his creation? The story is grounded in the present world at times, while at other times, it rests on a single leaf. Heti's sharp prose carries the reader through an otherworldly, almost biblical narrative. This fearless and quirky novel grapples with significant questions about faith, our place in the universe, and how we perceive the world".
– Vine Awards Jury

2023 WINNER: HISTORY

Jeffrey Veidinger, In the Midst of Civilized Europe: The Pogroms of 1918-1921 and the Onset of the Holocaust

Published by HarperCollins Publishers

"This meticulously researched book invites the reader to a renewed understanding of the notion of pogrom by analyzing the situation of Jews who experienced this new form of violence in Ukraine between 1918 and 1921. Using long-neglected materials and recently opened Soviet archives, Veidlinger reveals many facets in the genesis, organization, practice and acceptance of this criminal path to the Holocaust. This text also clearly differentiates what the Germans could build on and what they brought to the process. This book invites the reader to reflect on the tragic innovations of the 20th century, while gaining new insights into this murderous process".
– Vine Awards Jury 

2021 WINNER: NON-FICTION

Dr. Gabor Maté with Daniel Maté, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture
 

Published by Knopf Canada

"Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and healer, and his son, chronicle his life dealing with trauma and mental health. They reflect on the social implications of health in a toxic world. Maté offers new ways of bearing witness to personal and social diseases. The book covers topics from brain chemistry to rethinking what is deemed "normal." It's beautifully written and changes the modern-day discussion on health and healing".
– Vine Awards Jury 

2021 WINNER: YOUNG ADULT/CHILDREN'S LIT

Cary Fagan, Water, Water

Published by Tundra Books

"In this middle-grade novel, Rafe wakes up to a post-apocalyptic world where his bedroom is floating in an endless sea of water. With only his dog for company, Rafe must face the challenge of surviving in a world that has turned upside down. The story touches on important themes such as climate change, personal growth, and community. Fagan takes the reader on a journey through a high fantasy world, while also exploring deeper questions about grief, fear, and loss".
– Vine Awards Jury 

2023 WINNER: POETRY

Adam Sol, Broken Dawn Blessings
 

Published by ECW Press

"Adam Sol's latest book is a beautiful and deeply emotional collection of poems that bear witness to personal and public violence through language. Stripped to the core, the speaker relies on prayers whispered for generations, blessing us with powerful words of gratitude, powerlessness, and wonder".
– Vine Awards Jury