University of Leicester historian shortlisted for UK's most prestigious history book prize
A book by University of Leicester historian Dr Selena Wisnom has been shortlisted for the 2026 Wolfson History Prize, one of the UK's most prestigious awards for history writing.
Dr Wisnom's book, The Library of Ancient Wisdom: Mesopotamia and the Making of History, is one of six titles shortlisted for the award, which celebrates outstanding historical writing for a general audience.
Now in its 54th year, the Wolfson History Prize awards £50,000 to the winner and £5,000 to each shortlisted author.
An expert in the history and cultures of the ancient Middle East, Dr Wisnom's book explores the civilisation of ancient Mesopotamia through one of the ancient world's greatest surviving libraries.
The book introduces readers to what is often described as humanity's first civilisation, bringing to life its achievements, beliefs and everyday experiences.
The Wolfson History Prize judges praised the book as: “A thrilling panorama of ancient Mesopotamian society and culture, bringing its strikingly sophisticated systems of thought and belief to life for modern readers.”
Dr Selena Wisnom, from the University of Leicester's School of Archaeology and Ancient History, said: ‘I’m absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for the Wolfson prize. It’s a truly special honour, since writing rigorous history in an accessible way has always been important to me.
“Ancient Mesopotamia is hardly known among the wider public, but was absolutely critical for world history, so I’m delighted that the subject is getting this recognition and I hope it encourages more people to study the Near East.”
The six shortlisted books span subjects ranging from ancient civilisation and the history of extinction to early modern Europe, post-war Liverpool and the survival of pre-Christian belief systems.
According to the judges, the shortlist collectively explores how societies respond to periods of profound change and disruption.
The Wolfson History Prize is widely regarded as the UK's leading prize for accessible, academically rigorous history writing.
Previous winners of the Wolfson History Prize include some of the most distinguished historians writing in Britain, among them Simon Schama, Antonia Fraser, Antony Beevor and Clare Jackson.
The winner of the 2026 Wolfson History Prize will be announced on 1 December.