Catch up TV

Episode 11 August 2022

The Man Booker Prize is the world's most distinguished literary award for English fiction. Its winners instantly acquire a level of fame and wealth which most writers could only dream of. To commemorate its fiftieth birthday, this documentary looks back over the six decades of the prize, exploring how from humble beginnings the Booker quickly went on to revolutionise the sleepy world of literary fiction and become a central part of British cultural life. \n\nWe hear the inside story of scandal, gossip and intrigue from a host of former winners, judges and prize administrators. Over the years, the prize has changed its rules, its sponsors and its name. But it's never lost sight of its core purpose: to stimulate debate and encourage the reading of literary fiction. This is a tale of bruised egos and bickering judges and, most importantly of all, of countless brilliant books. \n\nContributors include Booker-winning authors Peter Carey, Penelope Lively and John Banville.

Source: BBC 4