The wait is over for literary enthusiasts as the Baillie Gifford Prize for Nonfiction reveals its 2025 shortlist, featuring six remarkable books that transform historical subjects into compelling narratives. From medieval sexual politics to swashbuckling pirate adventures, this year's selection demonstrates the extraordinary breadth of contemporary nonfiction.
Diverse Historical Perspectives Take Centre Stage
The £50,000 prize, renowned for celebrating the best in nonfiction writing, has selected works that explore fascinating corners of history through fresh perspectives. Chair of judges Fiammetta Rocco described the shortlist as containing 'books of marvel and wonder, each one a masterpiece of storytelling and research.'
Provocative Themes and Untold Stories
Among the standout titles is Katherine Harvey's 'The Fires of Lust: Sex in the Middle Ages,' which challenges conventional perceptions of medieval sexuality with groundbreaking research. Meanwhile, John Guy's 'The Tudors: The Crown, the Dynasty, the Legacy' offers a fresh examination of England's most famous royal family.
The shortlist spans centuries and continents, featuring:
- Ed Simon's 'Devil's Party' exploring the complex legacy of the Puritans
- John M. MacKenzie's 'A Cultural History of the British Empire'
- Helen Castor's 'The Eagle and the Hart' examining the life of Anne of Brittany
- Adrian Tinniswood's 'The Pirate World' delving into maritime history
Judging Panel and Prize Significance
The distinguished judging panel, including historian Roderick Floud and author Sarah Jilani, praised the exceptional quality of submissions. The Baillie Gifford Prize has established itself as one of the most prestigious awards in publishing, often propelling winners to bestseller status and critical acclaim.
Previous recipients have included iconic works such as 'The Emperor of All Maladies' by Siddhartha Mukherjee and 'The Return' by Hisham Matar, demonstrating the prize's track record for identifying groundbreaking nonfiction.
What Comes Next for the Shortlisted Authors
The six finalists will now await the final announcement in November, when one author will receive the substantial £50,000 award. All shortlisted writers receive £5,000, recognising their achievement in reaching this prestigious stage.
This year's selection promises to introduce readers to captivating historical narratives that challenge assumptions and bring forgotten stories to life, continuing the prize's tradition of celebrating exceptional research and compelling storytelling.
