Unveiling the MBL Overseas Chinese Book Awards – A New Initiative to Celebrate Chinese Voices in Global Literature

The Mothers’ Bridge of Love (MBL) is proud to announce our plan to establish the MBL Overseas Chinese Book Awards, a literary initiative aimed at amplifying the voices of overseas Chinese writers and translators. Inspired by the legacy of Toby Eady, MBL’s founding chairman and a pioneering literary agent, these awards seek to support, recognize, and promote outstanding literary talent in the global Chinese community.

Honouring a Legacy of Literary Bridge-Building

For decades, Toby Eady worked tirelessly to introduce Chinese literature to the world, advocating for Chinese authors, translators, and cultural exchange. Between 2004 and 2006, he led the Open Eyes to China literary delegation, bringing publishers and literary agents from over 20 Western countries to meet Chinese writers and publishers. His passion also fueled MBL’s Books for Kids initiative, providing over 20 rural children’s libraries in China with books to expand their horizons.

Our Vision for the Awards

📖 Planned Award Categories:
🏆 MBL Children's Book Award – £2,000 (for authors under 16)
🏆 Toby Eady Literary Translation Award – £3,000
🏆 Overseas Chinese New Writer Award – £3,000

The awards are planned to be announced annually around World Book Day, with a ceremony held at the British Library in the UK.

Join Us for the Official Plan Unveiling at the Haha! Britain Book Launch

We have officially introduced this initiative on 15th March 2025 at the British Library, during the book launch of Haha! Britain. This event has served as a platform to share our vision, gather feedback, and invite collaboration from literary professionals and supporters.

We invited publishers, writers, translators, and literary enthusiasts to join us in shaping these awards and fostering the next generation of Chinese literary talent worldwide.

Together, let’s celebrate and elevate Chinese storytelling on the global stage!