Source : Times of India
The Goldsmith’s prize is an annual award given to “fiction that breaks the mould or extends the possibilities of the novel form”. It was set up in 2013 and has become a prestigious award. However, it only awards English and Irish authors published in the UK. They have previously awarded books like How to Be Both by Ali Smith and Solar Bones by Mike McCormack. This year the shortlist contains the following books:
Kudos by Rachel Cusk
This is the final part of Rachel Cusk’s ‘Faye’ Trilogy. The first two parts, Outline and Transit, have all received praise and have been shortlisted for this very award. This final instalment carries on the series spectacularly. This one follows Faye as she flies to Europe to get her book published and has several incredible conversations that explore almost every aspect of life before coming to a fitting conclusion.
Murmur by Will Eaves
Both an author and a poet, the author has the ability to use imagery memorably. Inspired by the story of the war hero and father of the computer Alan Turing, this is the story of a man who, despite the torture he went through, maintained his honour, his ability to love and his curiosity. It has been shortlisted for many awards.
In Our Mad and Furious City by Guy Gunaratne
A book that follows a changing world, this book shows how big incidents can affect the smallest things. After a British soldier is killed, the country riots and the friendship of three boys is tested as one of their mosques grows more and more radical. The author was a journalist covering conflict areas and his experience is reflected in his words.
The Cemetery in Barnes by Gabriel Josipovici
This is a short book that will take time to read, for the sheer beauty of the prose. The meditative style takes us through three plots in a cleverly crafted tale that will still manage to both surprise and satisfy the reader at the end.
Crudo by Olivia Laing
This is a clever, relevant book about being able to love in difficult times. The setting is one we have all experienced- summer 2017. With Brexit, Trump and Global warming, the real world provides a grim setting as the artistic protagonist learns to love and create in such a scary world.
The Long Take by Robin Robertson
The book follows a war veteran as he attempts to settle into civilian life again. Suffering from PTSD, he moves from New York to Los Angeles and San Francisco, attempting to settle but the political climate makes it seem like he might be headed to war again soon. Filled with thoughtful prose, the book has both darkness and hope.
