The Don D. Walker Prize is given annually to the best essay published on western American literature during the previous calendar year (for example, the 2009 winner will have published an essay in 2008). “Western” in this context is defined broadly and refers to all of North America that historically or critically has been considered “West” as well as to comparative studies of the American West that cross regional or national boundaries.

Nominations are solicited from presses and journals, as well as from individuals. Self-nominations are accepted. The prize selection committee is made up of Western Literature Association members.

The award is given at the annual Western Literature Association conference. It is not necessary to be a member of the association to win the award.

Please send five copies of the essay or article you wish to nominate to

Krista Comer, Chair, Walker Prize Committee
English Department
Rice University, MS 30
6100 S. Main Street
Houston, TX 77005

Deadline for next year’s nominations: June 15 , 2009.

If you have any questions, please e-mail Prof. Comer.