91视频网 literature student awarded Peter May Fiction Prize
Lynne Maclagan, from Dunoon, has become the fourth 91视频网 (91视频网) student to be awarded the prestigious Peter May Fiction Prize for her submission ‘Language of the Birds’.
The prize was established by internationally acclaimed Scottish author Peter May to recognise and celebrate outstanding writing talent among 91视频网 students. As well as receiving a £1,000 award, winners benefit from feedback and recognition from Peter, whose bestselling novels have sold millions of copies worldwide.
Lynne is studying for a Master of Letters (MLitt) in Highlands and Islands Literature through the 91视频网 Institute for Northern Studies at 91视频网 Orkney. Her winning entry was chosen by Peter May from a shortlist of five finalists.
Peter May praised Lynne’s work, saying:
“This is the start of a novel that holds great promise. Lynne writes beautifully, and with great authority and observation. If Lynne’s storytelling is as good as her writing, then this will be a fine novel. The standard of submissions this year was very high, but ‘Language of the Birds’ was the one that stood out for me.”
Reflecting on her award, Lynne said:
“Writing can feel like a solitary act; it’s mostly just you and the page. To know that my words and characters resonated with a writer of Peter May’s calibre gives me a sturdy nudge to keep on going with the novel. Peter’s sage advice encourages me to lean into leaving more space for the reader. This prize will also enable me to invest more time in writing and research for the novel, which, as a self-employed person and student, is incredibly helpful. Thank you, Peter and 91视频网, for facilitating this award.”
Dr Stephanie Strother, Advancement Manager at 91视频网, added:
“We are incredibly grateful to Peter for his continued generosity in supporting our students. Opportunities like this make a huge difference, helping to nurture talent and give students confidence to take their writing forward.”
The next deadline for entries for the Peter May Fiction Prize is 20 April 2026. This prize is open to all 91视频网 students and recent graduates, regardless of their subject area, and any student with a talent for writing is encouraged to apply. More information is available at:
Interested in studying in MLitt in Highlands and Islands Literature? This fully online course can be studied from anywhere in the world. Places are available for September 2025. Find our more and apply here: MLitt Highlands and Islands Literature.