On Friday, January 9th, it was announced that Lida Dijkstra’s “The Wonderteller,” illustrated by Djenné Fila, has been shortlisted for the 2026 Boon Literature Prize.
The Boon Literature Prize is a prestigious Flemish award for the best Dutch-language books. The jury of children’s and young adult literature judged “The Wonderteller,” along with four other titles, to be the most convincing in terms of literary quality, expressiveness, and originality. “The Wonderteller” has previously won the Golden Griffel, the Silver Brush, and the Young Beckman Prize.
Five titles from the longlist have also been selected for the Boon Literature Prize for fiction and non-fiction. In addition to the jury prizes, a Boon Audience Award will be presented in both categories. You can find the shortlists and vote for your favorite title at www.deboon.be.
The winners of the 2026 Boon Literature Prize and the Boon Audience Award will be announced during the festive awards ceremony on March 24th at the Mechelen City Theatre.
About the Boon
The Boon is the most important literary prize in Flanders for the best Dutch-language book, with two categories: fiction & non-fiction and children’s & youth literature. Each winner receives €50,000 and a silver signet ring. Thanks to Davidsfonds and the Gezinsbond, there is also an Audience Award worth €5,000 in each category. The Boon is organized by the non-profit organization Flemish Literature Prize with the support of the Flemish government, and in collaboration with media partners VRT and De Standaard. Also visit deboon.be.
Want to learn more about the work of author Lida Dijkstra and illustrator Djenné Fila? Visit lidadijkstra.nl and djenne.com.
Photo: Bas Bogaerts
