what is an edgar award

2 min read 25-12-2024

The Edgar Allan Poe Awards, better known as the Edgars, are the most prestigious awards in the mystery fiction genre. Named after the master of suspense himself, Edgar Allan Poe, these awards recognize excellence in mystery writing and related fields. This article delves into the history, categories, and significance of winning an Edgar Award.

A Rich History: Celebrating Mystery's Best

The Mystery Writers of America (MWA) established the Edgar Allan Poe Awards in 1945. The organization, dedicated to promoting and celebrating the art of mystery writing, felt a need to recognize outstanding achievements within the genre. The awards quickly became a coveted prize, signifying the pinnacle of success for mystery authors and other professionals.

More Than Just Books: Diverse Edgar Award Categories

The Edgars aren't limited to novels. They encompass a wide range of mystery-related works, including:

Best Novel: This is the most prominent category, awarding the best mystery novel published in the previous year.
Best First Novel: This category highlights promising new talent in the field.
Best Paperback Original: Recognizing excellence in original paperback publications.
Best Fact Crime: Awarding outstanding nonfiction crime writing.
Best Critical/Biographical: This category acknowledges excellent critical works or biographies about crime writers or mysteries.
Best Short Story: For the best short mystery story published during the year.
Best Television Episode: Recognizes superior writing in a television mystery episode.
Best Television Movie/Miniseries: For an outstanding mystery television movie or miniseries.
Grand Master Award: A lifetime achievement award given to a highly influential mystery author.
Raven Award: This award, presented less frequently, recognizes significant contributions to the mystery field.

The Significance of an Edgar Award

Winning an Edgar is a significant achievement. It brings considerable prestige and recognition to the recipient. It can significantly boost an author's profile, leading to increased book sales, more speaking engagements, and greater media attention. Winning an Edgar often translates to wider recognition and a broader readership for an author's work.

Beyond the Author: Industry Recognition

The impact of an Edgar Award extends beyond just the writer. It can also provide a significant boost for publishers, agents, and other professionals involved in bringing the winning mystery work to the public. The awards highlight the quality and creativity within the genre, attracting more readers and potentially boosting the entire mystery writing industry.

How the Winners are Chosen

The selection process for the Edgars is rigorous. Members of the Mystery Writers of America nominate works within each category. Then, separate juries of mystery writers, critics, and other industry professionals carefully read and evaluate the nominated works. This meticulous process ensures that only the most deserving works receive the prestigious awards.

The Legacy of the Edgar Awards

Since their inception, the Edgar Awards have played a pivotal role in shaping the mystery genre. They have celebrated countless talented authors, brought attention to exceptional works, and encouraged further creativity within the field. They continue to be a mark of excellence, a symbol of achievement in the world of mystery writing. The Edgars represent a lasting testament to the enduring power of mystery fiction and the dedication of those who create it. They represent the best in mystery and thriller writing, making them a highly sought-after literary prize. Winning an Edgar is a significant accomplishment that solidifies an author's place in mystery literature history.