Introducing ‘Orbital’
‘Orbital’ by Samantha Harvey offers a profound literary experience that transcends the boundaries of both space and human emotion. Shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2024 and the Hawthornden Prize, this exceptional novel captures a singular day in the lives of six astronauts navigating the vastness of space. Harvey’s narrative is not merely about travel; it is a meditation on existence and the shared bonds of humanity.
A Day in Space
Set against the backdrop of the final space station missions, ‘Orbital’ showcases the lives of astronauts from different nations, including the USA, Russia, Italy, Britain, and Japan. As they orbit the earth at speeds exceeding seventeen thousand miles per hour, we witness their daily routines—preparing dehydrated meals, floating into sleep, and engaging in exercises to combat muscle atrophy. These moments provide a glimpse into their earthly connections through photographs, talismans, and fragmented communications with loved ones.
A Profound Reflection on Our Planet
The narrative invites readers to experience the majestic beauty of sixteen sunrises and sunsets from space, alongside a deep reflection on the environment. Harvey’s writing captures the astronauts’ awe as they gaze upon the silent blue planet below. ‘Orbital’ stands not only as a tribute to the allure of space but as a moving elegy for our planet and its inhabitants. Critics have hailed the novel as ‘ravishingly beautiful,’ making it an essential read for those intrigued by the intersection of humanity and the cosmos.
