A review by katykelly
Lost for Words by Edward St Aubyn

4.0

Behind the scenes of a book award. Snooping for book lovers.

Very funny. A look at the judges and nominees, the wrangling and dealing (and occasional reading) that goes on as a longlist becomes a shortlist becomes a winner.

From the MP involved because he's a little bored of the day job to the judge wanting to bestow an honour on a worthy recipient, the team of judges give us an idea of the process of reading and determining how an award winner becomes the final choice. Though it's quite shocking how easily books are dismissed or used as pawns as critics and supporters vie for their own choices are discussed.

The writers themselves also feature, from the woman every man lusts after to the man certain his work is destined for greatness.

I had a few issues keeping up with character names for a while, audiobooks aren't always the best format for every genre, but after a while I was able to distinguish characters and their histories. The reader managed to give each a unique voice.

A very funny look at the hypocrisy and machinations that might go on to select the 'best' in any award category.