2024 Booker Prize Shortlist Features Record Women Authors

The 2024 Booker Prize shortlist features the largest representation of women in its 55-year history, with five women and one man among the six finalists. The selected authors include Samantha Harvey for 'Orbital', Rachel Kushner for 'Creation Lake', Anne Michaels for 'Held', Yael van der Wouden for 'The Safekeep', Charlotte Wood for 'Stone Yard Devotional', and Percival Everett for 'James'. The themes of the shortlisted works encompass a variety of contemporary issues, including identity, climate change, and historical narratives. Edmund de Waal, chair of the judging panel, praised the novels for their engaging storytelling and ability to prompt discussions. The winner of the prestigious award, which comes with a £50,000 prize, will be announced on November 12, 2024. This year's shortlist reflects a significant shift from the previous year's focus on debut authors, showcasing established writers and a debut Dutch author for the first time.