* Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (1983): Walker won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel "The Color Purple," a powerful exploration of the lives of African-American women in the rural South.
* National Book Award for Fiction (1983): In the same year, "The Color Purple" also won the National Book Award for Fiction, recognizing its literary merit and cultural significance.
* O. Henry Award (1981): Walker received the O. Henry Award for her short story "Everyday Use," which deftly portrays the generational divide and conflicting values within an African-American family.
* Guggenheim Fellowship (1979): The Guggenheim Foundation bestowed a Guggenheim Fellowship on Walker in recognition of her exceptional creative abilities and potential for future contributions to American literature.
* Rinehart Fund Award (1982): Walker was honored with the Rinehart Fund Award for her significant contribution to American literature, specifically for her novel "The Color Purple."
* Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Award: The Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Award acknowledged Walker's outstanding achievements in literature and supported her continued exploration and advancement of important social issues.
* Morton Dauwen Zabel Award (1992): Walker received the Morton Dauwen Zabel Award for her short story collection "In Love & Trouble: Stories of Black Women."
* Rea Award for the Short Story (1985): Walker's short story "Kindred Spirits" earned her the Rea Award for the Short Story, further solidifying her reputation as a master of the short story form.
These awards and honors testify to Alice Walker's artistry and her vital contribution to American literature and culture. Her groundbreaking works have challenged societal norms, given voice to marginalized individuals, and left a lasting impact on the literary landscape.