6 April 2020
Author Antti Tuuri receives the 2020 Veijo Meri prize
The Otava Book Foundation has awarded the 2020 Veijo Meri prize to Finnish author Antti Tuuri who was described as:
“The master of Finnish fiction and short stories, an independent innovator renewing the best tradition of 1950s modernism. Tuuri explores the world and the purpose of human. His ability to present clear and precise narrative coloured by Ostrobothnian humour that can be read between the lines has evolved into his signature style.”
The Foundation also honoured Tuuri’s numerous achievents:
“Throughout nearly fifty years of production, Tuuri has continued to contribute fiction and short story collections. However, his scale of work is much wider as he has also published numerous documentaries such as the Rukajärvi series, travel stories, corporate histories, biographies, stage and radio plays, opera librettos, film and TV manuscripts, and even a writing guide. Tuuri’s works have inspired many including filmmakers, and several of his novels have successfully been adapted for film. Tuuri’s native Ostrobothnia is the starting point for many of his works such as the book series Ostrobothnia (Pohjanmaa). The impressive first novel of the series won the Nordic Council’s Literary Award and the final novel of the series, The Call of the Plains (Lakeuden kutsu) was awarded with the prestigious Finlandia Prize.”
Since established in 1945 the Otava Book Foundation’s ambition has been to acknowledge and encourage Finnish authors as well as highlight the cultural and social significance of their work.
We warmly congratulate Antti Tuuri!
