Canada Reads champion Kate Beaton wins 2024 Jan Michalski Prize for Literature

Cape Breton cartoonist Kate Beaton’s graphic memoir, “Ducks,” has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Jan Michalski Prize for Literature. This Swiss-based prize recognizes outstanding works in all literary genres, regardless of the language in which they are written.

As the recipient of this esteemed award, Beaton will receive a prize of 50,000 Swiss francs (approximately $79,000 CAD) from the Jan Michalski Foundation, along with a work of art by the talented draftsman Micaël. The jury responsible for selecting the winner consisted of prominent figures in the literary world, including publisher Vera Michalski-Hoffmann, novelist Jonathan Coe, and author Kapka Kassabova, among others.

In a press statement, the jury praised “Ducks” as a “profoundly moving masterpiece” that embodies courage. They lauded Beaton’s work for its clean lines, powerful dialogue, and its ability to address sensitive and pressing issues such as hypercapitalism, environmental degradation, sexism, and sexual harassment. Described as a “piercing and daring graphic memoir,” “Ducks” sheds light on the hidden realities of working conditions in the oil industry through the eyes of a young woman.

“Ducks” made history in 2023 as the first graphic memoir to win Canada Reads, championed by Jeopardy! star Mattea Roach. Beaton’s career was initially launched with the publication of the historical webcomic strip “Hark! A Vagrant,” which garnered critical acclaim and accolades. Following the success of her webcomic, Beaton released “Ducks,” which went on to win the 2023 Doug Wright Award for best book, as well as two Eisner Awards, the Harvey Award, the Ignatz Award, and two Ringo Awards.

In “Ducks,” Beaton recounts her experiences leaving her close-knit Nova Scotia community to work in the Alberta oil sands in order to pay off her student debt. The memoir delves into the harsh realities and everyday traumas that she encountered during her time in Fort McMurray. While the narrative is deeply personal, Beaton intended for “Ducks” to also serve as a reflection of her larger Cape Breton community and the challenging working conditions faced by many in similar industries.

The Jan Michalski Prize for Literature, established in 2010 by The Jan Michalski Foundation, is a tribute to the legacy of Vera Michalski-Hoffmann’s late husband. This annual award recognizes exceptional literary works that push boundaries and inspire thought-provoking discussions.