Take Two translates the day’s headlines for Southern California, making sense of the news and cultural events that affect our lives. Produced by Southern California Public Radio and broadcast from October 2012 – June 2021. Hosted by A Martinez.
The Thurber Prize for American Humor is the only official recognition of the art of humor writing in the United States.
The award is named after humorist James Thurber. Ever since the prize was first given out nearly 20 years ago, it's been given to male authors -- guys like Jon Stewart, Calvin Trillin and David Sedaris.
That will not be the case this year. The short list was announced Tuesday, and all three finalists are women.
is one of those finalists. She is also the author of the book, "I See You Made an Effort: Compliments, Indignities, and Survival Stories from the Edge of 50."
Gurwitch said she was at her computer when she heard the news.
"I just jumped up and I was like, 'Oh my God, this is so great!'" she said. "And then, I think I pulled an age muscle in my back, because at my age, I'm 53, you can't really do a jump for joy."
All jokes aside, Gurwitch said she is thrilled to be a part of history.
"It is exciting that I get to be a part of just this one, little piece of breaking down a barrier," she said.
To listen to the full interview, click on the blue audio player above.