Brenda Hartwell and Vicky Bernard Announced as Finalists for 2026 QWF Literary Awards

Hartwell is nominated for the Paragraphe Hugh MacLennan Prize for Fiction for her debut novel, *No Wrong Seasons*. Bernard is recognized for her French translation of Liz Howard’s poetry collection, *Letters in a Bruised Cosmos*, titled *Le trou dans le ciel*, competing for the Prix de traduction de la Fondation Cole.

The QWF disclosed its shortlist on October 15, with winners across eight categories receiving $3,000 each. The spoken word prize may be shared among one to three winners.

Hartwell, based in Baldwin’s Mills, has been an active participant in the cultural life of the Townships. Her QWF biography highlights her roles with the Townshippers’ Association and various literary organizations, as well as her editorial work on the literary anthology *Taproot*.

Published by Inanna Publications in 2025, *No Wrong Seasons* explores the relationship between a young photographer and a reclusive painter in a southern Quebec lakeside community as they navigate personal traumas.

Bernard, who currently resides in Orford, returned to Estrie after years in Montreal. Her academic background includes a master’s degree in comparative Canadian literature from the Université de Sherbrooke, focusing on Howard’s work. Her nominated translation was published by Éditions du Noroît in 2026.

The gala will be hosted by Linda Morra, a writer and podcaster, and a professor of Canadian Studies at Bishop’s University.

Hartwell shares the fiction shortlist with Michael Carin for *Edisson and Jeremiah*, Kevin Jagernauth for *The Longest Death*, Zeenat Nagree for *My Summer Vacation*, and Chanel Sutherland for *Layaway Child*. In the translation category, other finalists include Catherine Leroux, Marie C. Scholl-Dimanche, and Olivia Tapiero.

Sutherland’s *Layaway Child* is also in contention for the Concordia University First Book Prize along with works by Michael Eddy and Arizona O’Neill.

The other award categories recognize poetry, non-fiction, playwriting, spoken word, and children’s literature. The complete shortlist is available on the QWF website.

Additionally, the eight Ian Ferrier Spoken Word Prize finalists will showcase their work on October 30 from 3 to 5 p.m. at Concordia University. Poet and scholar Jason Camlot will host the event, part of QWF’s Words & Music series.

The November 9 gala will also present the College Writers Award and the carte blanche Prize, along with honoring the Judy Mappin Community Award recipient. The College Writers Award includes a $1,000 prize and publication in QWF’s online journal, carte blanche. The carte blanche Prize has a $500 first prize and additional awards for runners-up.

Tickets for the gala are priced at $25, or $10 for full-time students. A reception prior to the ceremony is available for $60, or $40 for students, which includes hors d’oeuvres and drinks. The evening’s theme is “Fancy Schmancy,” though formal attire is optional.