Dundee graduate scoops 2005 book prize

Malcolm Archibald, who graduated with a first class honours degree in history in 2001, is the winner of the 2005 Dundee Book Prize. Malcolm received the £6,000 cash prize for his first novel, entitled 'Whales for the Wizard', which has been published by Polygon.

His book is an adventure story set around the whaling industry in Dundee in the 1860's and has been described by celebrated crime author and Dundee Book Prize judge Ian Rankin as a "rip-roaring adventure mystery with terrific detail of place, period and shipping lore."

Currently living in Dundee and splitting his time between writing and lecturing in history at Dundee College, Malcolm's novel was chosen over those of the two other finalists. 'Treading Water', by Claire Collison, from London, and 'The Curiosity Cabinet', by Catherine Czerkawska, from Ayrshire, were highly commended by the judges and have also been published by Polygon.

In a unique departure from previous years, the winner was selected by 19 different reading groups from around the country. Each group read the three novels and cast votes for their preferred choice.

Malcom's success is also impressive given that the number of entries for this year's round of the competition rocketed to 240. And the scope of the prize has broadened nationally and internationally with more than half the entries coming from England or overseas including Canada, Germany, Australia, Spain, Wales and Ireland.

Rankin, the author of the Inspector Rebus crime novels, presented Mr Archibald with a special winner’s plaque in front of an audience of around 70 people from across the Scottish literary scene. He said, "New and aspiring writers need all the encouragement they can get. This prize actually sees their novels published, making it one of a kind. I remember the buzz I got from seeing my first novel in print, and I hope all three short-listed authors are feeling the same.

"This year's prize was hotly contested and more popular than ever. The field of writing has never been as strong in Scotland as it is today, and it's wonderful for me to be able to welcome three new and distinctive talents. Long may they flourish."

Deputy Principal Professor Geoff Ward said, "Scotland's vibrant literary scene is held in international regard and the Dundee Book Prize is making a unique and important contribution. Writers seeking discovery can find no better route."