Self-published author is shortlisted for Australia's top book prize

For the second time this year, the world’s eyes are on Australia’s top literary prize.

This time, it’s because a self-published book has landed not just on the longlist, but also the shortlist for the Miles Franklin Literary Award — for the first time.

Michael Winkler was told by traditional publishers that Grimmish was "repellant," "wearisome," and impossible to sell, the author told the Guardian.

Looks like he got the last laugh; Grimmish became a cult hit and would also bring in $60,000 to Winkler if he receives the Miles Franklin, which will be handed out July 20.

Grimmish is an experimental quasi-biography of boxer Joe Grim.

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