The Society for the Study of Early Modern Women has named the book “Journey of Five Capuchin Nuns” the winner of the prestigious Josephine Roberts Prize for a Scholarly Edition Award competition.

College of Charleston Hispanic Studies Associate Professor Sarah E. Owens is the author of the book. Owens, an expert in the writings of early modern religious women, conducted extensive archival research in Spain for this book.

The true story follows five nuns on a three-year travel odyssey from Madrid to Lima.  Set in the early 1700’s, the book is a riveting adventure story seen through the eyes of Abbess Maria Rosa. It chronicles the journey through wars, pirates, disease, the high seas, and treacherous mountain passes of the Andes.

The Society for the Study of Early Modern Women is a network of scholars who hosts a journal, meets annually, sponsors sessions at conferences, maintains a listserv and website, gives awards for outstanding scholarship, and supports one another’s work in the field. The Society will present the award to Owens on October 14, 2010.