Brooke Smith Wins Sargeson Prize for Touching Short Story

Brooke Smith has been awarded the Sargeson Prize for her poignant short story, “Piece of the Furniture,” which captures the emotional turbulence of childhood moves. The prize, aimed at secondary school students, provides Smith with $2,000 and a one-week summer residency at the University of Waikato.

The Sargeson Prize, administered by the University of Waikato, encourages young writers and showcases emerging talent. Smith’s winning piece resonated with the judges, particularly Elizabeth Knox, who praised its depth and emotional clarity. Knox noted, “The story that won first prize in this Division made me cry,” reflecting on how Smith effectively illustrated a child’s perspective on the upheaval of moving homes.

Emotional Journey Through Change

“Piece of the Furniture” draws readers into the world of a young child who experiences the complexities of moving without fully understanding the implications. Smith writes about the process of packing up a home, likening it to a ritual steeped in familial connections and loss. The child’s reflections reveal a sense of displacement, capturing how moving homes can feel like a silent goodbye to cherished memories.

The narrative begins with a vivid description of the house “sighing” as boxes are pulled from hiding, establishing a tone of melancholy. The child, oblivious to the full meaning of this transition, engages in a form of play that masks the underlying sadness. Smith’s ability to convey this complex emotional landscape has earned her high praise.

Knox highlighted the story’s ability to evoke nostalgia while exploring themes of belonging and identity. She commented on the “stunning passage of remembered houses,” emphasizing the pain of love thwarted by circumstance without resorting to blame.

Recognition for Emerging Writers

In addition to Smith’s achievement, Haelyn King from Green Bay High School secured second place, winning $1,000, while Thomas Beaglehole-Smith of Wellington College received $500 for third place. The Sargeson Prize continues to showcase the potential of young writers, fostering a passion for storytelling among students across the country.

The winning stories, including Smith’s, will be published through a partnership between ReadingRoom and the University of Waikato. In the Open Division, Becky Manawatu won the first prize of $15,000 for her story, “The Vase,” with Maria Wickens receiving $1,000 for her work, “My Pal Mal.”

The Sargeson Prize not only highlights literary talent but also encourages a new generation of writers to express their voices and experiences. Smith’s success is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to resonate across diverse audiences.