Associate Professor Erin Pearson of Elon University has been named the recipient of the 2026 Arthur Miller First Book Prize, a prestigious international honor recognizing excellence in American Studies.
This balance between sophisticated analysis and readable writing is often a deciding factor for the BAAS, as it ensures the research can influence both specialized scholars and broader undergraduate curricula.
Academic publishing, particularly with a reputable press like the University of Virginia Press, often requires several years of peer review and revision.
Pearson’s work suggests a third avenue for student engagement: the study of everyday items and the media that surrounded them.
While sources such as Elon University emphasize the professor's local impact, the international nature of the award suggests a global relevance.
Associate Professor Erin Pearson wins the 2026 Arthur Miller First Book Prize for her study on consumption and slavery in the Atlantic world.