Meet the Judges of the 2027 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction: Shrabani Basu and Reeta Chakrabarti

The 2027 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction has announced its judging panel, featuring Indian-origin author Shrabani Basu and broadcaster Reeta Chakrabarti. This prestigious award, aimed at recognizing exceptional narrative non-fiction by women, offers a £30,000 prize and a unique artwork. Basu expressed her excitement about the opportunity to highlight women's contributions to literature. The longlist will be revealed in February, with the winners announced in June 2027. This event underscores the importance of amplifying women's voices in the literary world.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 21, 2026, 21:38 IST

Celebrating Women in Literature

London: On Wednesday, the judging panel for the 2027 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction was announced, featuring Indian-origin author Shrabani Basu and broadcaster Reeta Chakrabarti. This esteemed award, valued at £30,000, honors outstanding narrative non-fiction authored by women who are influential thinkers and leaders.

In addition to the cash prize, the winner will receive a unique artwork titled 'Charlotte', crafted by artist Ann Christopher and presented by the Charlotte Aitken Trust.

Basu, known for her works such as 'Spy Princess: The Life of Noor Inayat Khan' and 'Victoria and Abdul: The Extraordinary True Story of the Queen’s Closest Confidant', expressed her enthusiasm for the prize, stating, "This award provides a wonderful platform for women to gain recognition in the non-fiction genre."

She added, "I’m currently immersed in some captivating books, exploring topics I might not typically choose. The range is vast, covering history, politics, science, technology, and memoirs."

Basu mentioned the intensity of the judging process, saying, "For the next few months, I’ll be deeply engaged in reading. I eagerly anticipate sharing the longlist."

Joining Basu and Chakrabarti on the panel are writer and disability advocate Sophie Morgan, psychotherapist Emma Reed Turrell, and the panel will be chaired by lexicographer Susie Dent.

Dent remarked, "Women’s non-fiction writing is frequently overlooked and undervalued. Alongside my fellow judges, I am excited to amplify the voices of those whose experiences and insights can enrich us all."

The longlist for the 2027 non-fiction category will be revealed on February 10, with the shortlist following on April 7. The fiction longlist will be announced on March 10, and its shortlist on April 28. The winners for both categories will be disclosed during a charity summer event in London on June 17, 2027.

The Women’s Prize for Fiction will be chaired by Merve Emre, a scholar and critic, alongside a panel that includes broadcaster Charlotte Collins, novelist Esther Freud, poet Theresa Lola, and writer Eimear McBride.

Claire Shanahan, Executive Director of the Women’s Prize Trust, stated, "These judges are fully equipped to select 32 remarkable books and curate an exceptional reading list, celebrating the talented authors behind these works and ensuring their writing reaches millions globally."

She emphasized the mission of the Women’s Prize Trust, highlighting the importance of women’s voices in entertainment, information, and inspiring change.

In addition to the cash award, the fiction prize winner will also receive a limited-edition bronze statuette known as 'Bessie', created and donated by artist Grizel Niven.