Amsterdam Writer Longlisted for Women's Prize Memoir

A Filipino-Indian writer living in Amsterdam just received international recognition for sharing one of life's most personal journeys.

Deepa Paul made the Women's Prize for Non-Fiction 2026 longlist for her memoir "Ask Me How It Works." The book chronicles her path from a deeply Catholic upbringing to opening up her marriage, including the experience of introducing her boyfriend to her husband.

Paul lives in Amsterdam with her husband and daughter. Her memoir tackles questions about body, sexuality, and desire through the lens of her own open marriage.

The judges praised the book for its "open, tender writing." The recognition places Paul alongside literary heavyweight Arundhati Roy, the Booker Prize-winning novelist who's also on the longlist for her memoir "Mother Mary Comes to Me."

The Women's Prize for Non-Fiction honors the best non-fiction writing by a woman published in Britain each year. It's the sister award to the better-known Women's Prize for Fiction.

This year's judging panel brings together diverse voices from across the arts. Novelist Nina Stibbe and thriller author Nicola Williams are reviewing the entries, with Thangam Debbonaire, chief executive of the UK Opera Association, serving as chair.

Why This Inspires

Paul's achievement celebrates the power of honest storytelling about unconventional life choices. In sharing her deeply personal journey, she's opened doors for readers questioning traditional relationship structures and searching for their own authentic paths. Her willingness to answer the uncomfortable questions creates space for others to explore their own truths without shame.

The longlist announcement represents just the first step in the awards process. The shortlist will be revealed in March 2026, with winners of both the fiction and non-fiction prizes announced on June 11, 2026.

Paul's recognition shows how personal stories about identity and choice continue to resonate with readers and critics alike.