Scottish writer Martin MacInnes has won the 2023 Arthur C Clarke award for his novel In Ascension, which judges praised as an “intense trip” that spans from the depths of the ocean to outer space. The award, recognizing the best science fiction novel of the year, was presented at a ceremony in London on Wednesday.
The novel follows marine biologist Leigh as she explores a newly discovered trench in the Atlantic Ocean. Critic Adam Roberts described the book as “beautifully written” and praised MacInnes for his ability to blend atmospheric detail with profound insights about life.
In Ascension was longlisted for the Booker prize and was selected as the winner by a judging panel that included Dolly Garland, Stark Holborn, Nic Clarke, Tom Dillon, and Glyn Morgan. Judging chair Andrew M Butler described the novel as capturing “vistas between the cellular and the cosmic” and noted its intense and immersive storytelling.
Established in 1987 by science fiction writer Arthur C Clarke, the award has recognized notable works in the genre, including Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad. MacInnes will receive a prize of £2,024 reflecting the current year, continuing a tradition of increasing the prize money by one pound annually since 2001.
MacInnes’s win adds to a legacy of acclaimed authors who have received the award, solidifying his place in the pantheon of great science fiction writers.
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