Ville Verkkapuro wins ‘Ilkka-Pohjalainen’ Literature Prize with debut PETE

Ville Verkkapuro received the ‘Ilkka-Pohjalainen’ Literature Prize for his debut novel PETE (Kosmos 2022)!

“There is something irresistible about the writer’s sincere, jagged desire to say something. What is most telling about the novel is its deep empathy. The main character of the story doesn’t blame his parents for his broken childhood and his own addictions, putting love first.” – ‘Ilkka-Pohjalainen’ Literary Prize jury

Ville Verkkapuro describes PETE’s selection as the winner as a courageous act by the jury. “My book represents radical empathy and I appreciate that radical empathy has been given a voice in this way.”