Booker Shortlist 2024: Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Next up for our shortlist musings is Orbital by Samantha Harvey. The majority of our panel was underwhelmed by this book. You can read our short reviews here: Orbital. The novel only made it onto 2 of our predictions lists (Jen and Anita correctly predicted it). The Booker judges had this to say about the book…

‘Samantha Harvey’s compact yet beautifully expansive novel invites us to observe Earth’s splendour from the drifting perspective of six astronauts aboard the International Space Station as they navigate bereavement, loneliness and mission fatigue. Moving from the claustrophobia of their cabins to the infinitude of space, from their wide-ranging memories to their careful attention to their tasks, from searching metaphysical inquiry to the spectacle of the natural world, Orbital offers us a love letter to our planet as well as a deeply moving acknowledgement of the individual and collective value of every human life.’

You can read more about the novel and an author interview on the booker prize website: here.

What does our panel think of the odds of this book being this year’s winner? Keep reading to find out

Jen’s Thoughts: Of all the panel, I think I liked this book the most (although Anita seems to be with me). It certainly wasn’t my favorite but I did find parts to be beautiful. In general this, isn’t the sort of novel that can keep my attention. I found it repetitive and my focus kept slipping. But those who love reflective books with minimal plot will likely appreciate it.
Why it Could Win: It seems to fit a pattern for the books the judges liked this year. Samantha Harvey also tends to be a favorite of the literary world.
Why it Might Not Win: I don’t think it’s as engaging as many of the other books on the list. There is something to be said for books that do make you engage in quiet reflection but there are better books for that.

Nicole’s Thoughts: I just don’t know what to say – I was underwhelmed.
Why it Could Win: It was fine – Booker should be more than fine.
Why it Might Not Win: Fine isn’t good enough.

Tracy’s Thoughts: The writing in this book is contemplative, like many of the books on the longlist. So much so that I almost fell asleep listening to it. The descriptions and musings were lovely, and I feel like I should have liked it more.
Why it Could Win: The judges seem to have a thing for no-plot, philosophizing books.
Why it Might Not Win: Nothing really happens, and it’s kind of niche- not a book that will appeal to a lot of readers.

Lisa’s Thoughts: This was the one book that I could not finish. I was bored and just did not care.
Why it Could Win: Circular musings and a distanced view back at planet Earth.
Why it Might Not Win: I hope something more interesting wins.

Anita: I save this one for last, and I actually like it. But it reads so much more like non-fiction . . .beautifully rendered, but a very non-fiction feel to it. I love non-fiction.
Why it Could Win: It’s original and looks at the earth from a unique point of view. Nothing like the rest of the shortlist.
Why it Might Not Win:  The judges are looking for the best fiction, and this book just isn’t it.

Try the book for yourself! You can purchase a copy here: Orbital

We want to hear from you? Have you read this one? Tell us what you thought of the book (link to your reviews or add a brief blurb in the comments). Do you think is will be the winner?