The August Prize has had the same prize amount since its start in 1989. Daniel Sandström, literary director at Bonnierförlagen, believes it's time for an increase. 'For my part, they can gladly raise it,' he says.
The August Prize, one of Sweden's most prestigious literary awards, has been presented since 1989 without any change to its prize amount. Over these 36 years, the sum has remained the same, despite inflation and rising costs in the publishing industry.
Daniel Sandström, literary director at Bonnierförlagen, comments on the situation and expresses a desire for change. He believes it is appropriate to adjust the amount upward. 'For my part, they can gladly raise it,' he says in an interview with Dagens Nyheter.
The prize was established to highlight outstanding Swedish authors and works in fiction, non-fiction, and children's and young adult literature. The unchanged sum has not previously sparked major debate, but Sandström's statement highlights a growing sentiment in the publishing world about the need for an update.