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Five shortlisted for Polari prize

20.09.11 | Katie Allen

Five titles have been shortlisted for the Polari First Book Prize, including Autofellatio by James Maker which began as a self-published e-book before finding a publisher.

Maker's title, published by Big Fib, joins three other titles from indies: Love, Hope & High Heels by Clare Campbell (Tollington Press); Homo Jihad by Timothy Graves (Paradise Press); and London Triptych by Jonathan Kemp (Myriad Editions). Julian Corkle is a Filthy Liar by D J Connell (Blue Door) completes the list.

The Polari First Book Prize awards debuts which explore the queer experience and is open to poetry, prose, fiction or non-fiction published in the UK in English during the year of submission. Self-published books or e-books are also eligible.

Rachel Holmes, head of literature and spoken word at the Southbank Centre, said: "This is a very strong list of robustly diverse voices and genres". Paul Burston, chair of judges, added: "The shortlist reflects the wealth and range of queer literary talent and the changing face of publishing today."

The winner will be announced at the Polari fourth birthday celebration on 21st November, at the Southbank Centre. The Polari First Book Prize is named after the gay literary salon' Polari, founded in 2007.

• Katie Allen
• Polari First Book Prize
• Prizes