The Pulitzer Prize for Fiction

United States, celebrating over a century of exceptional American storytelling. Established in 1917 through the will of newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer, the first award was granted in 1918 to Ernest Poole for his novel “His Family.” Since then, this coveted prize has recognized works that represent outstanding contributions to American literature.

A History of Literary Excellence

In ten different years, no award was given—sometimes due to disagreements among the jury, other times because no work was deemed worthy of the honor. This selective approach has only heightened the prestige associated with winning.

Notable Winners and Milestones

The roster of Pulitzer winners reads like a who’s who of American literary giants. William Faulkner, Ernest Hemingway, John Steinbeck, Toni Morrison, and John Updike all claimed the prize during their illustrious careers.

Some fascinating Pulitzer facts:

• The 2023 prize was unusual in having two winners: Hernan Diaz and Barbara Kingsolver
• John Kennedy Toole’s “A Confederacy of Dunces” won posthumously in 1981
• Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1961) remains one of the most beloved winning novels

More Than Just a Prize

As you prepare to test your knowledge of these literary masterpieces in our quiz, remember that each Pulitzer winner represents not just exceptional writing, but a unique window into American life and thought at a particular moment in time.