The National Book Awards celebrate the best of American literature. Their purpose is to expand its audience, and to enhance the cultural value of good writing in America. Here are the 2009 winners for fiction and nonfiction. For a full list of finalists and winners please see The National Book Awards.
In 1974 Manhattan, a radical young Irish monk struggles with personal demons while making his home among Bronx prostitutes, a group of mothers shares grief over their lost Vietnam soldier sons, and a young grandmother attempts to prove her worth. Check catalog for availability.
A biography of the combative man whose genius and force of will created modern capitalism, documenting how Vanderbilt helped launch the transportation revolution, propel the Gold Rush, reshape Manhattan, and invent the modern corporation. Check catalog for availability.
Submitted by Jacki @ MPL Central