theguardian.com
Orbital Wins Booker Prize
Samantha Harvey's "Orbital" wins the 2024 Booker Prize, a story of six astronauts on the ISS.
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EntertainmentLifestyleSpaceAwardNovelBooker PrizeAstronauts
Booker PrizeInternational Space StationWilliam HillLadbrokesThe Guardian
Samantha HarveyEdmund De WaalTim PeakePenelope FitzgeraldPercival Everett
- Who won the 2024 Booker Prize and what is the book about?
- Samantha Harvey's "Orbital" won the 2024 Booker Prize, a unanimous decision by the judges. The novel, about six astronauts on the ISS, is a short but impactful meditation on Earth and human aspiration.
- What is unique about the setting and narrative structure of the winning novel?
- Orbital follows six astronauts over a day experiencing 16 sunrises and sunsets, offering a unique perspective on the Earth's fragility and the beauty of human ambition. Its concise length did not hinder its impact, according to the judges.
- What doubts did Samantha Harvey have about writing the novel, and what changed her mind?
- Harvey nearly abandoned the project, doubting her authority to write about space. However, positive feedback from astronaut Tim Peake encouraged her to continue.
- What indicates the level of public interest in the winning novel before the prize announcement?
- Orbital was the top-selling book from the shortlist before the announcement, indicating strong public interest even before winning the prestigious award.
- What was significant about the gender representation on the 2024 Booker Prize shortlist and the winner?
- The 2024 Booker Prize shortlist featured five women, a first in the prize's history. Harvey's win marks the first time a woman has won the award in five years.