The Jhalak Prize celebrates the genius 

Travis Alabanza’s memoir, “None of the Above,” won the 2023 Jhalak Prize. Danielle Jawando’s novel, “When Our Worlds Collided,” took the Jhalak Children’s and Young Adult Award. They each receive £1,000 and a specially created work of art. The prizes recognize the best writing by British or British-resident writers of color. Sunny Singh, the director of the prize, praised both winning books as “timely and timeless.” “None of the Above” by Travis Alabanza explores genderqueer identities. “When Our Worlds Collided” by Danielle Jawando is a compelling coming-of-age novel. Alabanza’s work reflects on social attitudes towards gender identity. Jawando’s novel delves into the aftermath of a stabbing incident. Both books offer unique perspectives on identity and resilience. The Jhalak Prize aims to celebrate and support writers of color.