Michel Moatti receives the 2024 Max Gallo Prize for his novel about Darwin

Michel Moatti received the Max Gallo Prize for his novel Darwin, the last chapter. It retraces the expedition of the HMS Beagle and the meeting between Darwin and FitzRoy. This prize, in homage to Max Gallo, celebrates authors who leave their mark on history and literature.

The first edition of the Max Gallo Prize rewarded the author Michel Moatti at the end of the week for his work Darwin, the last chapter. a novel published by Hervé Chopin. The jury, chaired by historian Emmanuel de Waresquiel, was made up of writers and historians, including Marielle Gallo, Maryvonne de Saint Pulgent, Henri-Christian Giraud, Jérémy Guedj and Pascal Ory, member of the Académie française. The prize will be officially presented by Christian Estrosi, during a ceremony scheduled for December 6 at Villa Masséna. An emblematic place of art and history in the city.

The novel of Michel Moatti, inspired by the logs of Robert FitzRoy and the writings of Darwinimmerses readers in the world of HMS Beaglefamous expedition ship. Through this adventure which begins in 1831. The author recounts the meeting between the young naturalist Charles Darwin and Captain FitzRoy. This expedition will mark a decisive turning point in science. Particularly through Darwin's observations which transformed the understanding of nature. The author thus manages to weave a captivating story combining scientific exploration and human drama.

A prize in memory of a Nice emblem

This literary prize pays tribute to Max Gallo, an emblematic figure of French history and literature. Born in Nice into a family of Italian immigrants, Max Gallo established himself as a prolific writer. But also a man of conviction, at the same time journalist, essayist and politician. His attachment to Nice is reflected in his work, particularly in The Bay of Angels. This award aims to perpetuate his memory by celebrating authors who share his love of history and life stories.

Michel Moatti, sociologist, journalist and professor, is also the author of several acclaimed novels, such as Return to Whitechapel et You won't be afraid. This latest work earned him the Cognac Polar Prize in 2017. With Darwin, the last chapterhis eleventh novel, he continues to explore areas of tension between science, exploration and humanity.