Philip K. Dick Award · 2024 · Winner
These Burning Stars
Bethany JacobsThese Burning Stars by Bethany Jacobs
Philip K. Dick Award
2024 Winner
2024 Shortlist & Longlist
Shortlist
Shortlist
The Museum of Human History
Shortlist
Danged Black Thing
Shortlist
Infinity Gate
Shortlist
Wild Spaces
Shortlist
Where Rivers Go To Die
Complete History
2020s
About the Philip K. Dick Award
The Philip K. Dick Award is presented annually at Norwescon for the best science fiction novel published for the first time in the United States as an original paperback. Named in honor of science fiction luminary Philip K. Dick, the award has been given since 1983—the year following Dick's death—and focuses specifically on original paperback publications, distinguishing it from other major SF awards that primarily recognize hardcover releases. The award highlights the long tradition of significant SF appearing first in paperback, and often recognizes daring, experimental, or unconventional works that push the boundaries of the genre. A special citation may also be awarded to recognize other outstanding works. The award is administered by the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society and presented at Norwescon in Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- The award recognizes the best science fiction novel published for the first time in the United States as an original paperback during the previous year. Books that were published in hardcover or outside the US first are not eligible.
- The award is named after Philip K. Dick (1928–1982), one of the most influential American science fiction writers, known for works such as Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, The Man in the High Castle, and Ubik. The award was created the year after his death.
- The award is presented annually at Norwescon, a science fiction convention held in Seattle, Washington, typically in March or April.
- In addition to the main award, the judges may also present a Special Citation to another outstanding work in the eligible category that merits recognition but did not win the primary award.
- A panel of judges appointed by the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society reads and evaluates all submitted works. The panel typically consists of SF professionals, critics, and knowledgeable readers.
- Yes. Because the criterion is that the work must be published first as an original paperback in the US, works by non-American authors have won and been nominated, provided their US paperback debut was eligible.
- Unlike the Hugo (voted by convention attendees) or the Nebula (voted by SFWA members), the PKD Award is judged by an appointed panel and specifically targets original paperback publications rather than all SF novels.