Sarah Gerkensmeyer's short stories win Autumn House Press Fiction Prize

Visiting Assistant Professor for the English department Sarah Gerkensmeyer has written the collection of short stories, “What You Are Now Enjoying,” which was selected by novelist Stewart O’Nan as the winner of the 2012 Autumn House Press Fiction Prize. This will be her first book and will be published in early 2013. The publishing contract includes both a $1000 advance against royalties as well as a $1500 prize to help jump-start a reading tour.

Recently, her short fiction, “Vanishing Point,” was a finalist in a contest judged by fiction writer Rick Bass and will be published in the next issue of the literary journal, The New Guard.

Her story “My Husband’s House” was named a special mention in a contest judged by fiction writer Kevin Wilson and will appear in the next issue of the literary journal, Copper Nickel.  

Also, Gerkensmeyer was named the 2012-13 Pen Parentis Fellow and will receive a full year of mentorship and support from the organization, which helps writers balance work and parenthood. Pen Parentis in New York City formally presented her on September 11, where she gave a reading and participated on a panel with other authors who are parents.

For more information on Gerkensmeyer’s short stories, visit: http://www.guernicamag.com/fiction/dear-john/