Lucy Steeds’ The Artist Crowned Waterstones Book of the Year 2024
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A captivating blend of mystery and romance, The Artist by Lucy Steeds has been named Waterstones Book of the Year for 2024. The novel, which previously secured the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize earlier this year and was longlisted for the prestigious Women’s Prize for Fiction, has resonated with both booksellers and readers alike.
A Story Set in Sun-Drenched Provence
Set against the evocative backdrop of 1920s Provence, The Artist follows English journalist Joseph as he seeks to profile a reclusive painter. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Joseph himself becomes the artist’s model, sparking a complex relationship and unraveling a compelling story. According to a review in The Guardian, the novel is “a seductive combination of romance, puzzle and poetry,” offering a thoughtful exploration of the value of art.
Waterstones Celebrates a “Word-of-Mouth Sensation”
Bea Carvalho, Waterstones’ head of books, lauded The Artist as a “gorgeously escapist novel which seamlessly transports the reader to the sticky heat of sun-soaked 1920s southern France.” She further emphasized Steeds’ talent, stating that the author “is a writer of staggering, rare talent and it has been a joy to see this bookseller favourite become a word-of-mouth sensation.” This organic growth underscores the novel’s broad appeal and the power of bookseller recommendations.
Additional Literary Honors Awarded
Beyond The Artist, Waterstones recognized excellence in other categories. The Café at the Edge of the Woods by Mikey Please received the Children’s Book of the Year award, building on its earlier win of the children’s prize in March. For culinary enthusiasts, Padella, a pasta cookbook, was selected as the Gift of the Year.
The winning authors will benefit from the “full and committed backing of Waterstones shops and booksellers across the UK,” ensuring increased visibility and readership.
Shortlist Highlights a Diverse Range of Titles
The Book of the Year shortlist showcased a diverse selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature. Notable contenders included Ocean by David Attenborough and Colin Butfield, Universality by Natasha Brown, Donut Squad: Take Over the World! by Neill Cameron, Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins, Craftland by James Fox, The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson, Alice With a Why by Anna James, Katabasis by RF Kuang, So Long, See You Tomorrow by William Maxwell, The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, Mother Mary Comes to Me by Arundhati Roy, and Strange Pictures by Uketsu.
Waterstones’ Bookseller-Driven Selection Process
The Book of the Year is uniquely chosen by a panel of Waterstones staff, reflecting the collective expertise and passion of booksellers. This selection process begins with nominations from booksellers across the country, ensuring that the winning titles represent the best of what the literary world has to offer. Last year’s winner was Butter by Asako Yuzuki, with I Am Rebel by Ross Montgomery taking the children’s book prize.
The awards highlight Waterstones’ commitment to championing both established and emerging authors, and to connecting readers with stories that will captivate and inspire.
