Of the 212 books, 84 journalists, and 164 bloggers to be considered, notable entries include the award-winning Wolf Hall (Hilary Mantel), The Ask and the Answer (Patrick Ness), and Beauty (Raphael Selbourne); Robert Winnett on MPs’ expenses (Daily Telegraph), David Leigh on Trafigura, Paul Lewis on policing, Ian Cobain on torture, Iran and British hostages in Iraq (all The Guardian); and bloggers Iain Dale, Hopi Sen and Stephanie Flanders.

 

Jean Seaton, Director of the Prize, said: ‘This year, every journalist who has had a big scoop wants an Orwell Prize as well. At a moment when many revile politicians but are increasingly turning back to politics (because that’s where the big problems we face are solved), the deep books, penetrating journalism and on-the-pulse blogs entered for the Orwell Prize should be on the reading lists of public and politicians alike.’

 

The longlists – of 18 books, 12 journalists and 12 bloggers – will be announced at the Sunday Times Oxford Literary Festival on Wednesday 24th March 2010, where the Prize will be organising a week of political discussion. The shortlists (of 6) will follow on 15th April, and the winners will be announced on 19th May.

 

The Prize is partnered by the Media Standards Trust, The Orwell Trust and Political Quarterly.