We are delighted to reveal the 16 books that make up the 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction longlist. A hopeful longlist that reflects the belief that every woman’s voice has the power to elicit and inspire change, the sixteen captivating titles span politics, memoir, science, history, biography, art and more, in an extraordinary, international celebration of women’s writing.

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The 16 books – seven of which are debuts – are a compelling and inspiring reading list for 2026 and beyond. They showcase the many varied ways in which writers approach memoir writing, use personal experience to unlock stories of the past, and tackle the social, political, cultural, legal and environmental issues facing society today, with many offering an image of hope for the future.