KATHMANDU: Nepali-American author and community responder Passang Nuru Sherpa has earned another major international literary accolade, with his memoir Behind the Mask winning the 2026 International Book Award in the Non-Fiction Creative category.

The award recognises Sherpa’s compelling account of life in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic, capturing the struggles, resilience and collective efforts of communities confronting an unprecedented global crisis.

Expressing his gratitude, Sherpa said receiving the International Book Award was a proud moment. “It’s a proud moment for me to get my book awarded by the IBA,” he said.

Spanning 449 pages, Behind the Mask chronicles the pandemic from the perspective of Jackson Heights, New York, one of the areas hardest hit by the outbreak. Rather than focusing solely on his personal experiences, the memoir highlights community solidarity, humanitarian efforts and the emotional toll of the crisis on immigrants and local residents.

The book draws heavily from Sherpa’s frontline experiences during the pandemic. A hairstylist and owner of Passang Striking Style salon in Jackson Heights, he became actively involved in relief efforts, delivering medicines, masks and essential supplies to vulnerable members of the community.

Published last year, the memoir is available in both paperback and hardcover editions through major online platforms, including Amazon. The English edition was translated from Nepali by Mahesh Paudyal and Peter Gill.

The latest honour adds to a growing list of international recognitions for the author. In 2025, Behind the Mask received the Best Book Award at the 22nd Annual American Book Fest Awards, where it was selected from among mainstream, independent and self-published titles. The memoir has also earned praise from the internationally respected Kirkus Reviews for its intimate storytelling, emotional depth and portrayal of immigrant resilience during the pandemic.

Earlier, the Nepal Sherpa Association honoured Sherpa for elevating the global profile of Sherpa and Nepali narratives through his literary contributions. The association described his work as a source of pride for the Sherpa community and a significant contribution to the international visibility of Nepali literature.

With Behind the Mask, Sherpa has not only documented a defining chapter of modern history but also preserved the stories of compassion, sacrifice and resilience that emerged during one of the world's most challenging periods.