International in scope, The Commonwealth Writers’ Prize is one of the most well-regarded fiction prizes in the world. They are awarded each year by the Commonwealth Foundation, and start with regional shortlists, and then regional winners for best book and best first book, followed by the unveiling of the “overall” best book and best first book for all world regions. In addition to £10,000, the recognition, and countless booksales, the overall winner of the Best Book Prize is invited to London to schmooze with Queen Elizabeth II . The award’s mandate is to “encourage and reward the upsurge of new Commonwealth fiction and ensure that works of merit reach a wider audience outside their country of origin.” The ”overall” winner will be announced on April 12th.