KATHMANDU, JUNE 20
Nepali-American author and community responder Passang Nuru Sherpa has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 International Book Award (IBA) in the Non-Fiction Creative category for his memoir 'Behind the Mask'.
The 449-page memoir chronicles life in Jackson Heights, New York, one of the communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the struggles, resilience and humanitarian efforts of immigrants and local residents during the global health crisis.
Drawing on his frontline experiences, Sherpa recounts his involvement in community relief efforts. A hairstylist and owner of Passang Striking Style salon in New York, he actively distributed medicines, masks and essential supplies to vulnerable members of the community during the pandemic.
Originally written in Nepali, the memoir was translated into English by Mahesh Paudyal and Peter Gill and published last year in paperback and hardcover editions.
'Behind the Mask' has previously received international recognition, including the Best Book Award at the 22nd Annual American Book Fest Awards in 2025. The memoir has also been praised by Kirkus Reviews for its intimate storytelling and portrayal of immigrant resilience during the pandemic.
Sherpa has also been honoured by the Nepal Sherpa Association for promoting Sherpa and Nepali narratives on the global literary stage through his literary contributions.