Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award 2026 Celebration

About this event

November 6: The Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award Celebration

First presented in 2016, the Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award is one of the nation’s leading literary honors. The award carries a $25,000 cash prize, underwritten by David and Michelle Baldacci, and recognizes distinguished fiction that tells American stories in a uniquely American voice — one that reflects Mark Twain’s incisive curiosity and humanity.

This year’s ceremony marks the 10th anniversary of the award. The evening includes an exclusive 25-person VIP reception inside the Mark Twain House, a pre-program reception in Hal Holbrook Hall, and the award presentation before an audience of 175 readers, writers, and friends of the museum.

VIP ticket ($750) includes an exclusive reception in the Mark Twain House with David Baldacci and the winning author, a pre-program reception in Hal Holbrook Hall, reserved seating for the award program, post-program dessert reception, a personalized signed copy of the winning book, and a swag bag.

Patron ticket ($150) includes a pre-program reception in Hal Holbrook Hall, admission to the award program, post-program dessert reception, and a signed copy of the winning book.

General admission ($50) includes admission to the award program, post-program dessert reception, and a signed copy of the winning book.

Schedule for the evening (dependent on ticket selection and subject to change)

5:30 VIP reception in the historic house

6:30 Patron reception in Hal Holbrook Hall

7:30 Award program

9:00 Dessert reception in Hal Holbrook Hall

Join us as we honor the 2026 Mark Twain Award winner Lydia Millet (Atavists)

From The Mark Twain House & Museum