So incredibly honored to share that The Original Daughter made the Dublin Literary Award’s first ever longlist. The list is stunning, and I’m thrilled to be included amongst such luminaries!
Here is what the nominating library, National Library Board of Singapore, had to say about the book:
The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei is a remarkable debut that exemplifies literary excellence through its deft balance of emotional depth, cultural insight, and narrative sophistication. Wei’s writing stands out for its clarity and control, drawing readers into a story that is both deeply personal and resonant with broader social commentary. What distinguishes The Original Daughter is the strength and subtlety of its prose. Wei crafts characters that feel fully lived in. Complex, flawed, and achingly real, without ever resorting to caricature. Her portrayal of intergenerational tension and personal identity is at once tender and sharp, revealing a critique of contemporary Singapore that is incisive yet never didactic. Nuanced and engaging, the novel rewards close reading while remaining accessible to a wide audience. It captures the quiet upheavals of family and self-discovery with striking emotional intelligence. Wei’s voice is confident, original, and timely, marking her as one of the most exciting literary talents of her generation. For its literary merit, thoughtful critique, and the richness of its characters and language, The Original Daughter is a worthy contender for this year’s award. (National Library Board of Singapore)
Pinch me!
x
J