Per Petterson also received the prize in 2003 for the novel OUT STEALING HORSES. In their statement the jury said:

"In his characteristic subtle but precise prose, Per Petterson continues his exploration of the high voltage field between individuals inextricably linked to each other by family as well as fate. Thereby he carries on a theme familiar from his previous novels: the loneliness of close relationships. And as always, what is being left out is at least as important as what is being said. […] The descriptions are merciless and leave the reader with little hope. However, due to Petterson’s unique, inimitable feeling for language, the pay-off is a great reading experience on the ride down the river of time. […] With this novel, Per Petterson confirms his position as one of Norway’s most important contemporary writers."

- For a writer with literary ambitions, this is the most prestigous prize. It's no secret, and I'm not afraid to say it. There are many wonderful prizes, but the Critics' Prize is special. It's the coolest prize, because it's voted for by all the critics in Norway, it's not even a jury, Petterson says to NTB.

Bjørn Sortland receives the prize for the first time. The jury writes in its statement:

”Sortland has written a softly spoken 'road novel' which at the same time is a succesful renewal of the 'x weeks overdue'-genre. On the surface, the book tells the story about two people who might become a couple, a fateful intercourse, and a road trip on the 'highway eastward'.

Ina doesn’t know what her pregnancy entails, she is uncertain of what she wants from life, and what’s more: She is uncertain of 'what life itself really is', and when it begins. […] Over the course of the novel’s few pages, Sortland expands his perspective, letting his story about fear of pregnancy focus on the underlying feelings of seriousness, loneliness and the gravitas and greatness of life. The end he has chosen maintains a beautiful balance of openendedness, reality check, rough warmth, self irony and road poetry.”

Among the other nominees for the adult prize was Inger Bråtveit's acclaimed novel SISS AND UNN.