Harvey and Obreht shortlisted for Climate Fiction Prize

Samantha Harvey and Téa Obreht are shortlisted for the first Climate Fiction Prize. Their novels, "Orbital" and "The Morningside," are competing for the £10,000 award. The prize honors novels that inspire hope and creativity in addressing the climate crisis. Other authors in the running include Abi Daré and Roz Dineen. Daré's "And So I Roar" follows a teenage girl in Lagos who has escaped a troubling past. The book sheds light on challenges women face worldwide, especially in relation to environmental issues. Judge Tori Tsui calls it a "tough but essential read." Dineen's debut, "Briefly Very Beautiful," tells the story of a mother caring for her children amid a global disaster. Judge Nicola Chester describes it as a "haunting narrative" that explores love and resilience in a chaotic world. Kaliane Bradley's "The Ministry of Time" completes the shortlist. It has been praised for its inventive storytelling and engagement with climate themes. The novel combines elements of romance and adventure in a near-future London. The shortlist was selected from a longlist of nine books. The judging panel includes journalist Bunting, climate activist Tsui, and others. They focused on works that reflect the power of storytelling in the face of climate challenges. The Climate Fiction Prize was introduced in June 2024 at the Hay literary festival. It aims to celebrate fiction that engages with the climate crisis. The winner will be announced on May 14.