The Chicago Public Library on Wednesday announced Samantha Harvey’s Booker Prize-winning novel “Orbital” as the 2026 selection for One Book, One Chicago, to mark the 25th anniversary of the program.
Harvey is a British author whose other books include “The Western Wind,” “Dear Thief,” “All Is Song” and “The Wilderness,” and one work of nonfiction, “The Shapeless Unease.” “Orbital,” which won the Booker Prize in 2024, follows a day in the life of six astronauts and cosmonauts from around the world on a final space station mission.
Harvey will deliver a virtual keynote speech at 3 p.m. Nov. 19, with watch parties at CPL locations across the city, including Harold Washington Library Center and CPL’s newly opened location at the Obama Presidential Center.
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“Harvey’s lyrical writing reveals what Chicagoans know to be true: no matter where you come from, we’re all a part of one powerful community,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson in part in a statement about the selection.
The Chicago Public Library launched its One Book, One Chicago reading initiative with Harper Lee’s classic “To Kill a Mockingbird” in 2001.
More information about the One Book, One Chicago program and events from September to November tied to the 2026 selection at chi.gov/obocguide2026.