 Mr. Nguyen Trong Nghia, Head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Communication and Education, speaks at the ceremony |
This year, 51 out of 57 publishers submitted entries, a significant increase from the previous awards. The judging process involved 81 experts, including writers and scientists.
Nguyen Trong Nghia, Head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Communication and Education, said: "The National Book Awards go beyond selecting, evaluating, and honoring authors and their works but the ultimate and most significant goal is to foster a vibrant environment where cultural figures, scientists, and authors can showcase their talents. The awards also aim to inspire creativity, encourage fresh perspectives, and foster innovative ideas. By doing so, they contribute to enhancing public knowledge, enriching the cultural experiences of the people, and driving social development."
 Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung presents the Minister's Certificate of Merit to publishing units with outstanding achievements. (Photo: Minh Quyet/VNA) |
The wining books spanned various topics, from politics, economics, to social sciences and humanities, and culture.
There were a number of new features this year: nominations were accepted from readers and media organizations, judges placed greater emphasis on each book’s impact, a new award category was added for Readers’ Favorite Books, shortlisted books were announced after the preliminary and final selection rounds, and post-award events to honor authors, translators, and publishers and promote the books were held.
Mr. Nguyen Nguyen, Director of the Department of Publishing, Printing, and Distribution and Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee, said: “We ensure rigorous judging, starting with two rounds of preliminary assessments followed by collective deliberation by sub-committees. The Final Jury Council carefully evaluates and proposes winning works, ensuring the highest standards are met.”
Mr. Tong Van Thanh, Director of the Department of Press and Publishing at the Party Central Committee’s Communication and Education Commission, said: “This year saw a record number of participating publishers and authors, and the quality of entries was better. Some authors were noted researchers, like 104-year-old Nguyen Dinh Tu, and there were many works which showed remarkable dedication to research and society”
After six previous iterations, the National Book Awards has solidified its reputation as a premier cultural event. By shining a spotlight on knowledge and cultural values, it inspires readers nationwide and fosters a love of books and reading culture in Vietnam.
