British author Samantha Harvey was awarded the 2024 Booker Prize for her novel Orbital, which takes place in the International Space Station. This introspective and contemplative approach marks a shift in science fiction literature, which often focuses on epic conflicts or technological discoveries. Orbital focuses on the human relationship with the planet from a distance, transforming Earth into an object of deep contemplation through Harvey's prose.
With just 136 pages, Orbital is the second shortest novel to win the Booker since the award was established in 1969. Samantha Harvey, author of four previous novels, is recognized for her ability to evoke a sense of wonder in the reader. She is the first woman to receive the prize since 2019, when the award was shared by Margaret Atwood and Bernardine Evaristo.
Harvey's work surpassed five other finalist titles, including James by Everett, and Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner. Orbital has been praised for its beauty and lyricism, and has been described as a miraculous novel that turns our world into something strange and profoundly resonant. The story explores the daily lives of astronauts and cosmonauts in Earth’s orbit, showcasing the planet's fragility from a distance.
The writer dedicated the award "to all those who speak up for the Earth and human dignity." Orbital stands out for its innovative approach to space narrative, inspired by the vision of Earth from space and how this perspective can feel intimate and domestic. Harvey, 49, is also the author of other notable works such as An Indefinite Restlessness: A Year Without Sleep and The Western Wind in 2018.
The jury praised the lyrical quality of Orbital, highlighting how the detailed description of astronauts' daily tasks and the view of Earth from space create an astonishing reading experience. The novel has captured the attention of readers and critics worldwide and has established itself as a remarkable work in contemporary literature.
With a prize of £50,000 ($64,000), the 2024 Booker Prize reaffirmed its global reach by recognizing the literary quality of Orbital. The novel is at the center of attention in the literary field, sharing the stage with works by established authors. Orbital, through its focus on life in the International Space Station, offers a unique and poignant perspective on the relationship between humanity and planet Earth.
