Since its inception in 2017 by Honey & Wax Booksellers, the Honey & Wax Book Collecting Prize has aimed to broaden the narrative around who book collectors can be. Focusing specifically on American women under 30, the award seeks to showcase unique collections often built without formal mentorship or guidance from the rare book community. The goal has always been to inspire a fresh perspective among potential collectors, rewarding creativity in identifying and preserving historical records.
This year's cohort of nominees for the 2025 Honey & Wax Prize demonstrated remarkable depth and originality, making it a particularly exciting selection process. The $1,000 award goes to:
WINNER
Alexandra E. LaGrand, 29, a doctoral candidate at Texas A&M University, for her project titled “Archiving the Shakespearean Breeches Actress.” LaGrand’s passion is rooted in the exploration of the nineteenth-century British stage, specifically focusing on actresses who took on male roles, a practice exemplified by the legendary Sarah Bernhardt's portrayal of Hamlet.
Her impressive collection consists of nearly forty artifacts—both printed and manuscript—that delve into the world of Shakespearean breeches actresses, reflecting a pivotal aspect of theatrical history. Among her treasures are letters, playbills, prints, and a unique scrapbook from a 1878 performance of Macbeth, featuring a role played by “Miss Lewis.” Notably, the collection's centerpiece is a dedicated archive surrounding Charlotte Cushman, who was celebrated for her pioneering work.
“My goal has always been to collect items that Cushman herself touched, bringing me closer to understanding her historic significance,” LaGrand reflects. This pursuit led her to various artifacts, including a manuscript letter and an inscribed first edition of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s New England Tragedies, each with its own unique story.
LaGrand's endeavor also includes a digital project, Points Like A Man, which curates historical records surrounding genderfluid performances in Shakespearean theatre. Her accompanying essay revealed the dynamic journey of discovery fueled by each new find, whether from bookstores, auctions, or online—to enrich archival research.
Read LaGrand’s winning essay and bibliography here.
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Additionally, five honorable mentions were awarded $250 each:
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Ashleigh McConnell, 29, from Washington State, recognized for “My Journey with Jane: A Tale of Discovery and the Birth of a Collector.” McConnell's endeavor centers around Jane Eyre, with over three hundred editions collected in her aim to own one from each year since its release in 1847.
Her collecting journey began during an overseas study program, where she sought out translated versions of Brontë’s classic in various languages. This effort not only amassed a unique collection but also transformed into a memoir of her travels, capturing memories through the books she discovered. Her hunt extended across all lower 48 states, revealing hidden gems in small bookstores and library sales.
Nat McGartland, 30, a doctoral candidate at the University of Maryland, for “Quhare scant wes Scottis: A Political History of the Scots Language.” McGartland’s collection showcases Scots as a significant linguistic heritage rather than merely a dialect.
Her works include linguistically important texts alongside historical dictionaries and glossaries. Inspired by the growing interest in Scotland's cultural identity, especially after the 2014 independence referendum, McGartland pivoted to contemporary Scottish literature, enhancing her collection with contemporary voices.
Bella Savignano, 24, an administrator at Swann Galleries in New York City, recognized for “Flashbang: Amplifying a Revisionist History of Glam Rock.” Savignano’s exploration of glam rock began when she received an archive from Jumpin’ Jack Flash, revealing a vibrant yet often overlooked aspect of 1970s New York.
Her thoughtful approach involved piecing together materials from that era, including clothing guides, photos, and concert memorabilia, creating a compelling narrative of glam rock and its cultural significance.
Amalia V., 29, a professional dominatrix from New York City, honored for “Collecting Sex,” a collection of over 150 materials at the intersection of sex work and domination. V. emphasizes the cultural importance of materials often marginalized in mainstream discussions.
Her collection spans a vast array of historical texts, offering perspectives on often-censored communities. V.’s work highlights the necessity of preserving these narratives, challenging societal attitudes surrounding sexuality and representation.
Jaeden Yoshikawa, 30, an archivist from Mankato, Minnesota, recognized for “A Trip Down Lover’s Lane: A Collection of Lover’s Real Photo Post Cards.” Yoshikawa’s project delves into the cultural significance of tourist sites designated for lovers and the attitudes surrounding them.
Focusing on real photo postcards, this collection explores both iconography and personal narratives linked to these spaces, offering insights into human relationships over time.
Each of these women has crafted unique narratives around their collections, contributing to a broader understanding of literary culture and personal history. Check last year's winners here.
The Honey & Wax Prize, co-founded by Heather O'Donnell and Rebecca Romney, extends gratitude to sponsors including Biblio, Bibliopolis, The Caxton Club, and Christie’s for supporting this initiative.