The National Book Awards finalists were announced last month and they included more surprises than have been seen in recent memory. Among the finalists were a graphic novel in the non-fiction category and a total of six books in a category that only allows five. On Wednesday night, the questions and controversy will come to an end, as the awards are handed out. Patrik Henry Bass, editor of books at Essence and Takeaway contributor, gives some insight into the National Book Awards.
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