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Books by MacInnes, Beard and Thomson vying for Blackwell's Book of the Year
Martin MacInnes’ In Ascension has been selected Blackwell’s Fiction Book of the Year (Atlantic), as voted for by a panel of Blackwell’s booksellers from across the UK. In the Non-Fiction category, the winner was Emperor of Rome by Professor Mary Beard (Profile), while Greenwild by Pari Thomson (Macmillan Children’s Books) has won Children’s Book of the Year.
The three category winners represent the books Blackwell’s booksellers said they were most passionate about recommending to customers this year. Each of the titles is now in the running to win Blackwell’s Book of the Year 2023, which will be announced on Tuesday 28th November.
Zool Verjee, commercial manager for Blackwell’s, commented: “I am incredibly proud of this shortlist. Our booksellers are champions of outstanding writing and each of these titles is thoroughly deserving of its place on the list.”
MacInnes’ In Ascension tells the story of a scientist studying ancient organisms, until a discovery leads her to question everything. Emily from Blackwell’s Aberdeen said: “With a story that is equal parts fantastical and real, Martin MacInnes’ In Ascension manages to create an unsettling atmosphere that lingers throughout the whole novel. The prose is transcendental; every word feels carefully picked and makes you feel as if you, too, are floating on the vast ocean with just the sea below you and the stars above you.”
Meanwhile, the Blackwell’s Children’s Book of the Year, Greenwild by Thomson, is a portal fantasy set in the world of Greenwild. “Greenwild is one of my favourite magical worlds I’ve explored this year and the stunning illustrations throughout took this world from the pages and immersed you completely," commented Libby from Blackwell’s Exeter. "The environmental magic is topical and relevant to children reading today, but the magic system and the adventurous spirit of Daisy is reminiscent of Blyton’s characters."
The Non-Fiction Book of the Year by Beard is described as "a masterwork" exploring what life was like for emperors and the subjects their ruled over. Lara from Blackwell’s Edinburgh said: “If you have never picked up a book on Roman history this would be a wonderful place to start. The author’s passion for her subject draws you in and doesn’t let go. An endlessly fascinating account of lives of the seemingly all-powerful emperors of Rome with all the vagaries of their benevolence, cruelty, and wit."
