The 2026 Hugo Awards have announced their winners, spotlighting outstanding contributions to the science fiction and fantasy genres. This prestigious event, which has honored literary talent for over seventy years, showcased a variety of captivating stories, from legendary knights to coffee shops navigating alternate universes.
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The top honoree for Best Novel is "The Everlasting" by Alix E. Harrow. The book follows Sir Una Everlasting, an orphan who became a celebrated knight, and Owen Mallory, a historian with a personal connection to her story. As their lives intertwine, they must confront the challenge of rewriting Una's legend while grappling with the heartaches involved in altering history.
For Best Novella, the award goes to "The River Has Roots" by Amal El-Mohtar. Set in the town of Thistleford, the story centers on the Hawthorn family, who maintain an ancient ritual of singing to enchanted willows. The plot thickens when Esther rejects a suitor for a lover from Faerie, jeopardizing the bonds between the sisters and their lives.
John Scalzi's "Old Man's War" earns the title of Best Series. It tells the story of John Perry, who enlists in the army at age 75, discovering the harsh realities of interstellar combat and what it means to fight for planetary ownership.
Ursula K. Le Guin's "A Wizard of Earthsea: A Graphic Novel," adapted by Fred Fordham, is recognized as the Best Graphic Story or Comic. It narrates Ged's journey, highlighting his reckless pursuit of power that unleashes chaos in Earthsea.
C.B. Lee's "Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe" takes home the Lodestar Award for Best Young Adult Book. This romance unfolds between Brenda and Kat, whose connection develops amid universe-crossing challenges rooted in Brenda's scholarship deadline and Kat's destined heroism.
Additionally, Elis Montgomery received the award for Best Poem with "Hex Supply Customer Support Log," and Antonia Hodgson was honored with the Astounding Award for Best New Writer.