It was established in 1990 at the initiative of Michel Albert, to honour the writer Jean Giono.
[1][2] Since 1992 it consists of two categories: the Jean Giono Grand Prize (Grand prix Jean Giono) and the Jury Prize (Prix du Jury).
The winner of the Grand prix Jean Giono receives 10,000 euros.
[3] Given to a French-language author who has "defended or illustrated the novel's case".
[4] Given for a French-language work of literature of any type, with focus on imagination and storytelling in the spirit of Jean Giono.