Michel Moatti has received the Max Gallo Prize for his novel Darwin, the Last Chapter. In it, he retraces the expedition of the HMS Beagle and the meeting between Darwin and FitzRoy. This prize, in tribute to Max Gallo, celebrates authors who make a mark on history and literature.
The first edition of the Max Gallo Prize awarded at the end of the week honored author Michel Moatti for his work Darwin, the Last Chapter, a novel published by Hervé Chopin editions. The jury, chaired by historian Emmanuel de Waresquiel, was composed of writers and historians, including Marielle Gallo, Maryvonne de Saint Pulgent, Henri-Christian Giraud, Jérémy Guedj, and Pascal Ory, member of the French Academy. The prize will be officially awarded by Christian Estrosi during a ceremony scheduled for December 6 at the Villa Masséna, a place emblematic of art and history in the city.
Michel Moatti’s novel, inspired by the logbooks of Robert FitzRoy and the writings of Darwin, immerses readers in the world of the HMS Beagle, the famous expedition ship. Through this adventure that 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, notably through Darwin’s observations that will transform the understanding of nature. The author succeeds in weaving a captivating narrative blending scientific exploration and human drama.
A Prize in Memory of a Niçoise 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 and a man of conviction, being both a journalist, essayist, and politician. His attachment to Nice is reflected in his work, notably in The Bay of Angels. This prize aims to perpetuate his memory by celebrating authors who share his love for history and life stories.
Michel Moatti, a sociologist, journalist, and professor, is also the author of several acclaimed novels, such as Return to Whitechapel and You Will Not Be Afraid. The latter earned him the Cognac Thriller Prize in 2017. With Darwin, the Last Chapter, his eleventh novel, he continues to explore the zones of tension between science, exploration, and humanity.
