it comes to the attention that their work receives from the media, and so it seems to me that there is a need for schemes such as the former Orange Prize and the Asham Award. As the organisers of the SI Leeds Literary Prize point out that Black and Asian women writers are a particularly under-represented group, I think it's fantastic to see them addressing this in the form of this award. Jane : With specific regard to Black women, for example, it was only a couple of centuries ago that culturally our ancestors -- and when I say "our" I mean every person alive today -- were in a legal triple-bind. Slaves were banned from reading and writing English, had their birth languages outlawed and had their songs and oral histories banned. Currently, many such women may have a book in them but due to many factors it may never see the light of day. I could write at length here, but you've asked for brief answers. I'd also like to include Northern working-class women in the pantheon of people who often think, "Writing a book? Not for the likes of me". With all that in mind, it's vital that everyone's voice has an approachable and respectful platform. FBS : Have you received more recognition / opportunities as a result of being short-listed for the SI Leeds Literary Prize, and what is the next step for you? Karen : I'm so pleased to have the chance to be part