#United States #Interlochen #Pattis Foundation #Parul Kapur #Inside the Mirror

Major Recognition for Parul Kapur's Literary Work

In a remarkable achievement, Parul Kapur's novel "Inside the Mirror" has been honored with the Pattis Family Foundation Creative Arts Book Award, administered by the Interlochen Center for the Arts. This accolade comes with a substantial cash prize of $25,000 and an opportunity for Kapur to engage directly with young artists through a multi-day residency at Interlochen Arts Academy, scheduled for April 2026.

The Pattis Family Foundation Creative Arts Book Award aims to recognize exceptional fiction and nonfiction works that inspire and illuminate the creative processes across various fields of artistic endeavor. Kapur's novel stood out in a competitive field, showcasing how literature can resonate profoundly with individual and communal experiences. The selection committee, led by Eric Blackburn, Dean of Academics at Interlochen, emphasized the novel's compelling narrative and well-crafted characters. They highlighted its historical setting in 1950s Bombay, now Mumbai, and its exploration of the significance of artistic expression.

Kapur's win was not solitary; her fellow nominees included notable works such as "Dreams in Double Time" by Jonathan Leal and "My Life in Paper Adventures in Ephemera" by Beth Kephart, each winning lesser prizes as finalists. The committee felt that while all three novels made strong impressions, Kapur's work ultimately embodied the spirit of the award better than the others.

During her residency, scheduled for April 8-10, 2026, Kapur will participate in a public event moderated by the acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Doug Stanton in Traverse City. This event forms part of the National Writers Series, which aims to foster engagement between established writers and emerging literary talents. Activities during the residency will also include master classes and intimate discussions with the Interlochen arts community, allowing Kapur to share her insights into the writing process.

"This award creates a bridge between extraordinary writers and the young artists who are shaping their own creative voices," noted Trey Devey, president of the Interlochen Center for the Arts. The engagement is designed to inspire students at Interlochen Academy, offering them a behind-the-scenes look at how compelling narratives take shape through personal experiences and artistic vision.

Established in October 2023, The Pattis Family Foundation Creative Arts Book Award aims to honor exceptional literary works across different art forms, including creative writing, music, and visual arts. With nominations currently open for the 2026 award, both Kapur's achievement and the establishment of this prize are poised to enrich the literary landscape further, stimulating discussions about creativity and artistic expression in today's context.

The Pattis Family Foundation, headquartered in Highland Park, Illinois, is committed to enhancing the value placed on literary arts and supports programs that promote intellectual inquiry. This initiative aligns with their broader mission to foster the appreciation of literature and its impact on culture and society.

Lastly, Interlochen Center for the Arts is renowned for its commitment to artistic education and opportunities that cultivate creativity among its students, making it a pivotal institution not only in the United States but globally in the realm of arts education.

Through honors like the Pattis Award and through literary programs at Interlochen, new talents are being nurtured, and profound stories are being told—elevating the art of storytelling in today's fast-paced world.