The National Book Foundation has revealed its latest 5 Under 35 cohort, “a selection of five fiction writers under the age of 35 whose debut work promises to leave a lasting impression on the literary landscape.”
The writers were selected by five authors previously been honored by the foundation, either as a previous 5 Under 35 honoree or for work that appeared on the National Book Award longlists and shortlists.
Stacie Shannon Denetsosie, author of the story collection The Missing Morningstar, was selected by Mona Susan Power, who was longlisted for a National Book Award for A Council of Dolls.
Another short story writer, Megan Howell (Softie), was selected by Deesha Philyaw, a National Book Award finalist for The Secret Lives of Church Ladies. George Saunders, a National Book Award finalist for Tenth of December, picked Alexander Sammartino, author of Last Acts, for the honor.
Two previous 5 Under 35 honorees selected writers for the new cohort. C Pam Zhang picked poet and novelist Maggie Millner (Couplets), while Morgan Talty chose Jemimah Wei (The Original Daughter).
David Steinberger, chair of the foundation’s board of directors, said in a statement, “We have no doubt that the 2025 5 Under 35 honorees will similarly continue to shape contemporary fiction, and it is our honor to champion their boundless potential and talent.”
The 5 Under 35 program was established in 2006. Previous honorees include K-Ming Chang, Yaa Gyasi, Bryan Washington, Charles Yu, and Justin Torres.
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
