Here is a snapshot of the reaction to this year’s shortlist from the publishing industry and media:

Jonathan Ruppin, web editor for Foyles:

“I think the judges have come up with a staggeringly strong shortlist… “

Justine Jordan, Deputy Literary Editor, The Guardian:

“Six marvellous books”

John de Falbe, bookseller at John Sandoe:

 “This is a good solid list by serious writers.”

Gaby Wood, Books Editor, Daily Telegraph:

“….the strong Women’s Prize shortlist has given us cause to celebrate all of our best writers, whoever ends up winning.”

Alex Clark, Guardian Review:

 “A shortlist of extraordinary strength and depth…… that demonstrates what can happen when brilliant books and strong-minded judges come together.”

Hephzibah Anderson, Bloomberg:

“This year’s shortlist…embraces themes as varied as global warming, multiculturalism and destiny.”

Jon Howells, Waterstones:

 “This is the strongest shortlist of any major book award in recent years.”