McCartney wins Waterstones Book of the Year for ‘The Lyrics’

In the UK, Waterstones has named Paul McCartney’s The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present (Allen Lane) its Book of the Year for 2021, reports the Bookseller.

Waterstones MD James Daunt said, ‘The Lyrics is stunningly beautiful and a masterpiece of book design, a true joy for bibliophiles. Paul McCartney has fashioned, through the explorations of his songs with the poet Paul Muldoon, a fascinating insight into his life and creative genius. The booksellers of Waterstones are proud to celebrate this magnificent and deeply original book.’

‘Thanks Waterstones for this prestigious accolade,’ McCartney said. ‘I’m really happy at the reaction to The Lyrics and to be chosen by the bookselling experts themselves for this is truly overwhelming … Bookshops rule!’

The Lyrics has sold 23,818 copies in hardback to date via Nielsen BookScan in the UK. According to the retailer, last year’s winner, Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet, saw an uplift in sales of nearly 1,800% following its win.

Julia and the Shark (Kiran Millwood Hargrave, illus by Tom de Freston, Orion Children’s) was also named winner of the Children’s Gift of the Year award.

‘Championed by Waterstones booksellers from the very beginning, Julia’s lyrical quest to find the elusive Greenland shark is an incredible piece of storytelling from Kiran Millwood Hargrave,’ said Waterstones head of children Florentyna Martin. ‘Exploring powerful topics with warmth and honesty, and paired with Tom de Freston’s immersive artwork, we are elated to share and celebrate this highly creative novel.’

Category: International news