Perth writer, illustrator, and cartoonist Sarah Winifred Searle wins 2023 Primer Minister’s Literary Award

US-born, Perth-based writer, illustrator and cartoonist Sarah Winifred Searle is one of six winners in the 2023 Primer Minister’s Literary Awards. The winners were announced at the National Library of Australia in Canberra on November 16, where the award recipient for each category received $80,000. It is the richest literary prize in Australia, established in 2008 to recognise and celebrate the outstanding literary talents of established and emerging Australian writers, illustrators, poets and historians. An award-winning writer and artist of comics and prose, Searle’s win was in the Young Adult Literature category for their graphic novel The Greatest Thing, which the judges said had complex characters, a striking central story and clear arc. “This tender coming-of-age novel employs precise, well-considered dialogue in thought and speech balloons, and deceptively simple, panelled, sequential artwork to tell the story of grade 10 student Win,” the judges commented. “The novel is a masterpiece of understatement and emotional authenticity, exploring themes of fatphobia, biphobia, self-harm, and mental health issues, as well as starting at a new school, navigating shifting friendships, and loneliness. The Greatest Thing is a profound exploration of the value of art in helping us negotiate the world and our relations with others. “Essentially a story about courage, the work is richly layered and deftly handled. The Greatest Thing evokes deep empathy for all who struggle and deserve to flourish.” Balga resident Searle said they were stunned and extremely grateful for the win. “Some of the very best in comics have been listed in this category in previous years, and sharing that with them is such an honour,” they said. ”The Greatest Thing is a fictionalized memoir graphic novel about some important friendships and experiences from when I was in Year 10. It depicts the start of my lifelong journey with mental health management, when I was learning how to ask for help and building skills that I continue to use to this day. I hope readers find some value in my story, whether they see themselves in it or not.” Searle said the recognition and prize money was life-changing. “In times like these, it’s been an opportunity to reflect on my privilege and responsibility as an author,” they added. “It’s been a tough year for me, work-wise, so the relief has been immense. I plan to use some of the award funds to fill my employment gap and complete a passion project, and I plan to donate to a few organizations I really believe in.” The Greatest Thing is for readers aged 13 to 18, published by Allen & Unwin, RRP $22.99.