Manny and the Baby by Varaidzo

Manny and the Baby by Varaidzo was shortlisted for the 2025 Jhalak Prize. A powerful debut exploring Black British identity, family, and parenthood. Visit: https://scribepublications.co.uk/books-authors/books/manny-and-the-baby-9781915590268

Varaidzo is a Zimbabwean-British author nominated for the 2025 Jhalak Prose Prize. Their debut novel, Manny and the Baby follows two Black British siblings navigating love, loss, and identity in a tender, funny, and emotionally rich story. It earned a spot both on the longlist and the shortlist—selected by judges Sareeta Domingo, Taran N. Khan, and Yepoka Yeebo—alongside writers like N.S. Nuseibeh and Ashani Lewis

Set in the UK, Manny and the Baby delves into Black British experiences with warmth, humour, and insight. Varaidzo was praised as one of eight African-descent authors highlighted on the longlist, reflecting the prize’s commitment to diverse voices

Although Manny and the Baby didn’t win—the 2025 Prose Prize went to N.S. Nuseibeh—its inclusion in the shortlist marks a significant debut achievement for Varaidzo.

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