Sidewise Awards Celebrate Alternate History Genre

The Sidewise Awards for Alternate History highlight the growing genre of what-if fiction, with notable winners like Francis Spufford's 'Cahokia Jazz' and Laurent Binet's 'Civilizations', which explore alternative historical scenarios. Time travel narratives, celebrated for their emotional depth and thrilling plots, offer readers the chance to engage with pivotal historical moments and characters, promising endless storytelling possibilities. Museums, such as The Strong National Museum of Play, curate toys that reflect the evolution of playthings, showcasing both historical artifacts and modern items that evoke nostalgia. Additionally, lesser-known books often overlooked by social media platforms like BookTok deserve recognition for their literary value. Meanwhile, ancient manuscripts challenge conventional historical perspectives, presenting unique insights into humanity's past and the origins of civilization. These narratives collectively enrich our understanding of history and storytelling's potential.