The 2021 Miles Franklin Award shortlist was announced this week. When I predicted which titles would make the cut, I had expected Sofie Laguna, Laura Jean McKay, Miranda Riwoe, and Nardi Simpson to make the shortlist. Surprisingly none of these authors were included.
The shortlist is made up of the following works:- Aravind Adiga - Amnesty
- Robbie Arnott - The Rain Heron
- Daniel Davis Wood - At the Edge of the Solid World
- Amanda Lohrey - The Labyrinth
- Andrew Pippos - Lucky's
- Madeline Watts - The Inland Sea
Richard Neville, Chair of the judging panel, said of the shortlist:
“In various ways each of this year’s shortlisted books investigate destructive loss: of loved ones, freedom, self and the environment. There is, of course, beauty and joy to be found, and decency and hope, largely through the embrace of community but, as the shortlist reminds us, often community is no match for more powerful forces."
I have not read any of these titles and, as none of my predictions made it to the shortlist, I have no idea who is going to win.
The Winner of the $60,000 prize will be revealed on 15 July 2021.