Nov 16 (V7N) — Acclaimed British author Samantha Harvey has been awarded this year’s prestigious Booker Prize for her novel Orbital, a poignant depiction of the lives of six astronauts aboard the International Space Station. The announcement was made by the judging panel, chaired by British writer Edmund de Waal, as reported by BBC News.

In Orbital, Harvey explores the intricate dynamics of human relationships in a setting that transcends earthly borders and time zones. De Waal described the novel as a story of a "wounded world," highlighting its deep exploration of humanity's collective fragility and resilience. The six astronauts—four women and two men—are portrayed navigating the delicate interplay of personal and professional bonds as they observe Earth's shifting weather patterns and geopolitical boundaries from space.

At just 136 pages, Orbital is the second shortest book to win the Booker Prize and marks a milestone as the first space-themed novel to receive the honor. Harvey reportedly wrote much of the novel during the Covid-19 lockdown, which she has cited as a period of profound introspection and creativity.

Upon receiving the £50,000 prize, Harvey dedicated it to advocates for peace, environmental sustainability, and human dignity. “This prize is for those who speak out for the Earth and for others, striving for peace and equality,” she remarked during her acceptance speech.

The Booker Prize jury praised the work for its unique narrative style and its ability to evoke universal emotions in a confined, extraordinary setting. Harvey’s win places her alongside a distinguished lineage of Booker laureates.

The shortlist for the 2024 Booker Prize included other notable works such as Creation Lake by American author Rachel Kushner and Healed by Canadian author Anne Michaels, further highlighting the diverse and exceptional literary talent celebrated this year.

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