Sir Salman Rushdie’s novel Midnight’s Children has won the Best of the Booker prize, as voted for by the public. The 1981 book beat five other former Booker winners shortlisted from the prize’s 40-year history. Sir Salman, who was unable to attend the London ceremony as he is currently on tour in the US, sent his thanks via a pre-recorded message. It is the third Booker award for the author, who was also the winner of the Booker of Bookers in 1993. “Marvellous news – I’m absolutely delighted and would like to thank all those readers around the world who voted for Midnight’s Children,” the author said.
