E.B. White
For his letters, essays and the full body of his work.
Winners in Special Citations and Awards
Alex Haley
For Roots, the story of a black family from its origins in Africa through seven generations to the present day in America.
Scott Joplin
A special award is bestowed posthumously on Scott Joplin, in this Bicentennial Year, for his contributions to American music.
Roger Sessions
For his life's work as a distinguished American composer.
1978 Prize Winners
William Safire
For commentary on the Bert Lance affair.
Walter Kerr
For articles on the theater in 1977 and throughout his long career.