Samantha Harvey wins Booker Prize for *Orbital* as Charlotte Wood misses out

Samantha Harvey won the Booker Prize for her novel *Orbital*, which features astronauts reflecting on life from the International Space Station. This victory marks a shift as Charlotte Wood, who aimed to be the first Australian woman to win, was not awarded. Wood's novel, *Stone Yard Devotional*, explores themes of grief and meaning through a woman's experience with nuns. Despite not winning, her nomination has significantly boosted her book's sales, increasing by over 30% since the longlist announcement. Previously, Australian women had not won the Booker since Kate Grenville in 2006. Wood's recognition as a finalist brings her work to a wider audience, similar to past nominees who experienced increased visibility and sales.