The Giller Effect

Much has been made in the media about the "Giller Effect": the near-instant sales and exposure impact the Scotiabank Giller Prize bestows upon the five books lucky enough to make it to the shortlist. Media attention–starved authors are pulled from their studies, dispatched to the local barber or hairdresser for a quick makeover, and then packed off for dizzying rounds of TV appearances, Giller-themed public readings, and in-depth (i.e. more than three hundred words) interviews with newspaper and magazine writers. It’s a great story, especially for the sometimes glamour-starved publishing industry. But how much of it is actually true? READ MORE >>