Samantha Harvey's 'Orbital': A Miraculous Achievement in Space Pastoral Fiction

Samantha Harvey wins the Booker Prize for 'Orbital,' a short novel set on the International Space Station. This 'space pastoral' reflects on Earth's beauty and the human condition. Praised for its unique narrative, Harvey's work emerged victorious among strong contenders, marking her first Booker win since 2020.

British author Samantha Harvey has clinched the coveted Booker Prize for fiction with her novel 'Orbital', a captivating tale set aboard the International Space Station. This 'space pastoral' vividly portrays six astronauts witnessing the planet's stunning yet fragile beauty over 16 sunrises and sunsets.

Chaired by writer Edmund de Waal, the judging panel praised Harvey's work as a 'miraculous novel' that renews our view of the world during a year marked by geopolitical turmoil and climate challenges. The book, written during lockdowns, is noted for its 'crystalline' prose and was the shortest ever to win, highlighting its depth despite its brevity.

Harvey's victory breaks a four-year gap for British winners of the Booker Prize, open to writers globally. The acclaimed author surpassed finalists like Percival Everett and Charlotte Wood, securing her spot among literary greats such as Ian McEwan and Margaret Atwood.

(With inputs from agencies.)