About the Thurber Prize for American Humor
Awarded annually, The Thurber Prize for American Humor is one of the highest recognitions of the art of humor writing and cartooning in the United States.
The Thurber Prize is presented each year in James Thurber’s hometown of Columbus, Ohio. During this spectacular evening of humor, attendees are entertained with a host of hilarious surprises, including appearances from the finalists/winners.
The award show culminates with the announcement of the winners of The Thurber Prize for American Humor in writing and cartoon art.
Trevor Noah (2017 Thurber Prize Winner) and Rosemary Thurber, James Thurber’s Daughter
Writing Award
The Thurber Prize for American Humor in Writing was initiated in 1997 and is awarded to one outstanding humor book each year. A committee of national judges selects three top finalists to appear at the annual award show, where the winner/winning book is crowned live. Past winners and finalists include Alexandra Petri, S.E. Boyd, Steven Rowley, James McBride, Damon Young, Simon Rich, Patricia Lockwood, Trevor Noah, Dave Barry, Alan Zweibel, David Sedaris, Jon Stewart and The Daily Show, The Onion, and Ian Frazier.
Cartoon Art Award
The Thurber Prize for American Humor in Cartoon Art was initiated in 2024 in partnership with veteran New Yorker cartoonists Liza Donnelly and Michael Maslin. Each year, a national committee of nominators puts forward a slate of nominees, and a committee of judges selects one winner for this career achievement award. The winner and their work are celebrated at the annual Thurber Prize award show. Past winners include Paul Noth and Roz Chast.
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Disclaimer:
Views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by event and program speakers in all mediums are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Thurber House, its affiliates, or its staff/board.