Mathilda van den Hof from Beilen has for her autobiographical novel What is her name? won the literary gem. She received the most votes from the public in the category most popular book.
The literary pearl is an annual literature prize. All Dutch and Flemish fiction books for a (young) adult audience could be nominated, provided they appeared for the first time and in -house in 2024. The prize has been around since 2017, then founded as The Indie Awards.
Van den Hof has in What is her name? her family history explained. Her Jewish grandfather and grandma were betrayed in the war. Her mother, about twelve weeks old, barely survived. The events did not let go of the Hof for a long time. Thanks to writing her debut novel, she wandered from her traumas.
“I worked hard for this book, it feels like a recognition,” says Van den Hof about the literary pearl, which she was allowed to receive during a prize -giving ceremony in Utrecht. “It is nice that you can win such a prize as a self -publishing author.” In addition to a statue, Van den Hof also receives a small cash prize. “And of course it’s about the honor,” she adds.
Another book by Van den Hof will be waiting for a while. “There are plenty of ideas, a story is already in my head. I really want, but I am an entrepreneur. I have to find the time for it.”