This year, the European Union Literature Prize has announced its nominees, including Estonian author Lilli Luuk for her novel "Ööema." The prize is an important recognition that honors emerging writers from the European Union and beyond, showcasing their contributions to the literary field. This year, 14 books are in competition, with one entry from each participating country.

The selection process involved local literary experts from each country, who chose the authors and their respective novels based on their familiarity with the local literary landscape. A jury consisting of seven members will review excerpts from all the submitted books before selecting one winner and two special prize recipients. The winners of this prestigious award will be announced at the annual book fair in Warsaw, scheduled for May 29, 2026, which is a key event for the European literary community.

The nominated works this year include titles from various countries such as Armenia, Croatia, and the Czech Republic, demonstrating a diverse range of literary voices across Europe. The inclusion of Lilli Luuk highlights Estonia's contribution to contemporary literature and emphasizes the significance of supporting emerging writers in their creative journeys. This recognition can serve as a platform for Luuk and other nominees to gain broader visibility in the international literary scene, enriching the cultural exchange within the European Union.