The Edith Wharton Achievement Award

The Edith Wharton Achievement Award recognizes contemporary writers who have made extraordinary contributions to American letters. In particular, the award honors writers whose work fosters an empathetic understanding of the human condition through exceptional artistry and insight.

The 2010 recipient of the Edith Wharton Achievement Award was Francine Prose. Prose is a novelist, non-fiction writer, visiting professor of literature/writer-in-residence at Bard College, and a recent past president of PEN America Center. Francine Prose spoke at Berkshire WordFest on Friday, July 23, 2010, at the Festival Opener.

The Henry James Award

The Henry James Award recognizes contemporary writers who have made significant contributions to American cultural life. In particular, the award honors writers of exceptional linguistic dexterity and humor whose work brings America to a fuller sense of itself.

The Mount was pleased to announce the 2010 recipient, Garrison Keillor. Keillor is the host and writer of NPR programs A Prairie Home Companion and The Writer’s Almanac, as well as the author of more than a dozen books and a frequent contributor to newspapers and magazines worldwide. Garrison Keillor spoke at Berkshire WordFest on Saturday, July 24, 2010, at the Festival Fundraiser, held at Seven Hills Inn.

Edith Wharton Writing Competition for High School Students

The Edith Wharton Writing Competition recognizes and encourages fine writing and engagement with literature among high school students in Berkshire County. Organized annually by The Mount and generously sponsored by Berkshire Life Insurance Company and The Berkshire Eagle, the competition honors young writers in three genres: fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Congratulations to this year’s winners and their teachers!