Andrew Pippos’ “Lucky’s” is the winner of the 2021 Readings Prize for New Australian Fiction.

Elizabeth Tan, who won the 2020 prize for her short story collection Smart Ovens for Lonely People (Brio), was one of the judges for this year’s prize.

She said “Lucky’s” is an “exceptional debut work”, whereas chair of judges Kate McIntosh said that the work “reminded us of a pre-COVID, pre-hyperconnected time, one full of different challenges but still with much to say about our current moment where fortunes can flip quickly, and compassion is needed”.

Mr Pippos expressed his joy regarding the announcement.

“Many writers work for years on their novel without knowing whether the manuscript will be published. It’s a significant goal. To some extent it shapes our lives. And during this period, the world of the novel is a private space: the idea of readers and shortlists and prizes is far from the mind. After all this silence, I’ve found that recognition is meaningful and joyful. I didn’t expect to make shortlists, or win a prize, but I’m glad some good things have come my way,” Mr Pippos told Neos Kosmos following the announcement.

“From the outset Readings have been supportive. The early review by Alison Huber, head book buyer, is one of the most perceptive responses to my novel.”

“Lucky’s” was chosen from a shortlist of six, and the award comes with a $3,000 prize.

READ MORE: “Lucky’s”: A must-read saga by Greek Australian author Andrew Pippos

The award, now in its eighth year, recognises “exciting and exceptional new contributions to local literature’ and is open to first or second published works of fiction by Australian authors”

Mr Pippos’ work is a story of migration. From the opening chapter of the saga, the reader’s imagination is captured. For readers of Greek heritage, there is familiarity as the work evokes memories of the Greek Australian migrant story as well as the aromas and rituals of Greek cuisine.