Orange Prize for Fiction announces 2010 shortlist

London, 9.30am, 20 April 2010: Celebrating its fifteenth anniversary, the Orange Prize for Fiction today announces the 2010 shortlist.

the shortlist

This year’s shortlist honours both new and well-established writers. Two authors have previously been shortlisted; Hilary Mantel (2006) and Barbara Kingsolver (1999).

“This shortlist achieves the near impossible of combining literary merit with sheer readability,” commented Daisy Goodwin, Chair of judges. “With a thriller, historical novels that reflect our world back to us, as well as a tragicomedy about post 9/11 America - there is something here to challenge, amuse and enthrall every kind of reader.”

At the Awards ceremony on Wednesday 9 June, the winner will be presented with a cheque for £30,000 and a limited edition bronze statue known as ‘the Bessie’, created by artist Grizel Niven. Both are anonymously endowed.

Video

The judges discuss the shortlisting meeting

Free downloadable extracts of the six Orange Prize 2010 shortlisted books can be received by texting ‘prize’ to 60300 from any UK mobile (for non Orange customers, standard browsing rates may apply.  Please check with your local operator to confirm).