History
Since 1980, The Los Angeles Times Book Prizes have been dedicated to discovering new voices and celebrating the highest quality of writing across the spectrum of book publishing.
Luis J. Rodriguez is the 42nd winner of the Times’ annual Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement. The award is given to an author with a substantial connection to the American West whose contribution to American letters deserves special recognition. Luis served as the official Poet Laureate of Los Angeles from 2014 to 2016. Through poetry, memoir, essays, fiction, and journalism, he has used his craft to advocate for youth lost to gang life, to promote peace in our communities, and to bring people together in this chaotic world.