Writer from South East London says it's a "real joy" to be longlisted for prestigious literature award
Caleb Azumah Nelson is one of three writers from the capital on the list.
A writer from south east London says it's a "real joy" to have his work recognised, after being longlisted for a prestigious literature award.
Caleb Azumah Nelson, who grew up in Bellingham, has been longlisted for the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize for his novel 'Small Worlds'
He's one of three London-based writers on the list - with the others being Kae Tempest for 'Divisible by Itself and One', and A.K Blakemore for 'The Glutton'
Caleb said that the book is "a novel told over the three summers" and "the narrative centres Steven, a young jazz musician, who at 18 is sort of coming of age and coming into the world, and is doing the work to trace back his family's history so that he might better understand himself in the present."
"It's also about the ways in which we find space and freedom in music and expression, and community as well."
Caleb also emphasised that faith is a key theme in the book.
"I was thinking a lot about the places that people house their faith - whether that's in a traditional church or in a space like a concert or a club, or a party. A place where people for a brief moment can believe in something more than themselves."
The prize is worth £20,000, and the accolade recognises exceptional literary talent aged 39 and under.
Caleb also had some advice for aspiring writers.
"So much of writing feels like a trust exercise, so trust your instinct and have faith in the story you're trying to tell - and believe that even if you don't necessarily have the language to tell it at first, it will arrive."
The shortlist is announced on the 21st March, with the winner being announced at an award ceremony on the 16th May.