Richard Osman, Joanna Prior Earn OBEs in 2026 New Year Honours

Prominent figures in the literary and publishing world have received recognition in the 2026 New Year Honours list. Among the honorees, Richard Osman and Joanna Prior have earned OBEs, while Lucy McCarraher has received an MBE for her contributions to the industry. This year’s list includes a total of 1,157 recipients, reflecting a special emphasis on community service.

Richard Osman and Joanna Prior Recognized

Richard Osman, a well-known author and broadcaster, has been awarded an OBE for his services to literature and broadcasting. He has made significant contributions to promoting reading and storytelling through various media.

Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan since 2022, has also received an OBE. Prior dedicated 23 years to Penguin before her current role. In her acceptance statement, she highlighted the critical role that authors and illustrators play in the publishing industry. She expressed her commitment to championing creativity and making literature accessible to all.

Joanna Prior’s Reflections

• “Books have shaped how I see the world,” Prior stated.
• She emphasized the importance of diversity in publishing.
• Prior is dedicated to inspiring others in the industry.

Lucy McCarraher’s Contributions

Lucy McCarraher, the founder of the Business Book Awards and co-founder of Rethink Press, was honored with an MBE. Her efforts in promoting diversity in literature have earned her this acknowledgment. Recently, she launched Book Magic AI, an innovative app aimed at assisting authors in the book writing process.

McCarraher’s Response to the Honor

Upon receiving her MBE, McCarraher expressed disbelief and gratitude. She views her honor as representative of a larger movement aimed at supporting diverse voices in authorship.

Other Notable Honorees

• Bobby Seagull, a maths teacher and broadcaster, received an MBE for his contributions to public libraries.
• David Robinson was knighted for his role in social innovation, including co-founding the Discover Children’s Story Centre in London.

The 2026 New Year Honours reflect the ongoing commitment to recognizing individuals who have significantly impacted their communities, especially within the literary field.