The brilliant Val McDermid has been awarded an honorary degree from the University of Edinburgh, her eighth honorary doctorate.
Val was deservedly awarded the honorary doctorate “in recognition of her contribution to writing and broadcasting, and in celebration of her success as an author and ambassador for Scottish literature worldwide.”
Indeed, Val’s contribution to the literary landscape is quite remarkable: she has published over 50 books, which have sold over 19 million copies worldwide, is an experienced broadcaster and cultural commentator, has written extensively for stage, microphone and screen, and has been the recipient of the numerous esteemed awards and accolades. She has served as a judge for the Booker Prize and Women’s Prize for Fiction, is a Patron of the Scottish Book Trust, and has appeared regularly at the Edinburgh Festival (alongside countless other Festivals around the world). She is also an Honorary Fellow of St Hilda’s College, Oxford, from which she graduated herself – the first student from a Scottish state school to do so. Her achievements are seemingly never-ending.
On being the recipient of the honorary doctorate, Val said: “When I was a teenager in Fife more than half a century ago, the University of Edinburgh was a place of glamour and aspiration – and parties! I never imagined I would be the recipient of such an honour. To be awarded an honorary degree is a distinction that reflects not just on my work but on the teachers, writers, publishers, booksellers and readers who have supported me on my way. I’m grateful to all of them, and of course, to the University.”
Congratulations, Val. We are so proud to represent Val’s books: the next book in the Karen Pirie series (also now adapted into a TV show on ITV) is out in October 2025.
Photo credit: Charlotte Graham