The first edition of the Max Gallo prize crowned Michel Moatti this Friday, November 8 for his novel Darwin, the last chapter, published by Hervé Chopin.
The jury, chaired by Emmanuel de Waresquielbrought together writers and historians, Marielle Gallo, Maryvonne de Saint Pulgent, Henri-Christian Giraud, Jérémy Guedj, and Pascal Ory, from the French Academy. The prize will be presented to Michel Moatti by Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice, President of the Nice-Côte d'Azur Metropolis, Deputy President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region, in the exceptional setting of Villa Masséna , museum of art and history, the Friday December 6, 2024.
Inspired by the journals of Vice-Admiral Robert FitzRoy and the writings of Darwin, Darwin, the last chapter not only tells an adventure story, but immerses the reader in the intimacy of a scientific and human expedition which marked a turning point in our
understanding of the world. Michel Moatti takes us into the adventure of the HMS Beagle, which began in December 1831, where the young naturalist Charles Darwin, recently graduated from Cambridge, was embarked at the request of Captain Robert FitzRoy. The latter seeks intellectual companionship to avoid the extreme isolation encountered during previous expeditions, which led his predecessor to suicide. During this five-year journey, Darwin fell seriously and mysteriously ill. Between deep distress and acute crises, he will succeed in accumulating observations and revolutionary research work.
Journalist, doctor in sociology and university professor, Michel Moatti
is the author of Return to Whitechapel (2013), unanimously acclaimed by critics and You won't be afraid (Polar de Cognac Prize 2017). His historical thrillers are all published in paperback by 10-18. Darwin, the last chapter is his 11th novel published by Éditions Hervé Chopin.
Photo of Une (detail) ©AtelierGallienStudi
