Irish author John Boyne, best known for The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, has found himself at the center of a heated literary debate after being denied a second major award.
The 54-year-old writer was initially offered the prestigious James Joyce Award for his latest novel Earth, which tackles difficult themes including sexual assault and homophobia.
However, the prize was abruptly withdrawn following backlash over Boyne’s public support for JK Rowling’s gender-critical views.
Petition and Backlash Trigger Award Rescission
The James Joyce Award was temporarily put on hold after more than 800 authors signed a petition opposing Boyne’s nomination.
Many critics called his inclusion “inexcusable” due to his outspoken stance on trans rights and gender ideology.
University College Dublin’s Literary and Historical Society, which runs the award, faced criticism from campaign group Seen In Publishing, who labeled the decision “shocking and cowardly” and described it as another example of literary cancel culture.
Confusion and Disappointment for Boyne
Boyne shared an email from the student-run society, which initially praised him for confronting “uncomfortable truths with courage” and for demonstrating “authenticity” and a sense of justice in his work.
The society explained that these qualities were vital for students navigating identity and belonging.
Despite this initial praise, Boyne expressed confusion over the society’s decision to rescind the award.
“How any organisation can say [this]…and then rescind their prize when I demonstrate those very qualities is baffling,” he said.
He explained that although he and his agents attempted to follow up, their messages were ignored until the society finally responded under the threat of legal action, simply informing him that the award was withdrawn.
Boyne Stands by His Principles
Expressing disappointment, Boyne described the society’s actions as “cowardice” but made it clear that awards are secondary to the impact of his work. “Awards are ultimately meaningless. The books matter.
Readers matter,” he said. He added, “And if using one’s platform to defend the rights of women, children, lesbians, and gay men means that some plaque doesn’t end up on my wall… well, I won’t be losing any sleep over it.”
Context and Historical Significance of the James Joyce Award
It’s important to note that the award is administered by a student-run society, not University College Dublin itself.
Past recipients of the James Joyce Award include literary giants like Salman Rushdie, Bill Bryson, JK Rowling, and Noam Chomsky, as well as influential figures outside literature such as Nancy Pelosi, Gary Lineker, and Ralph Fiennes.
Society Responds and Promises Changes
The award organizers issued a statement condemning all forms of transphobia and promising to increase representation of trans and gender non-conforming judges on panels.
They also pledged to review governance and management, and to balance creating inclusive spaces with protecting freedom of speech.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in the literary world around free expression, gender ideology, and the responsibilities of authors and literary institutions.