At Orbit we’re big fans of World Book Night, so are delighted to see so many SFF titles appear in the final UK shortlist for this year’s event on 23 April 2012 – especially since one of the selected titles is THE PLAYER OF GAMES, by our very own Iain M. Banks. The final US shortlist is here.

THE PLAYER OF GAMES is a standalone title in Iain’s hugely successful Culture series of novels, and follows the adventures of Jernau Morat Gurgeh – the Player of Games, master of every board, computer and strategy.

Bored with success, Gurgeh travels to the Empire of Azad to take part in the ultimate game with the ultimate prize: the throne of Azad itself. But it’s a game in which blackmail and murder are part of the rules, and very soon Gurgeh finds himself in the most dangerous game of his life.

The inclusion of THE PLAYER OF GAMES on the World Book Night UK shortlist represents a unique opportunity to introduce thousands of new readers to the wonders of science fiction – and what better way to do it than by giving away copies of one of the finest works by a true master of the genre.

If you’re based in the UK, you can sign up to be a ‘giver’ for THE PLAYER OF GAMES on World Book Night UK by visiting the official website. You’ll be given 24 free copies of the book to distribute throughout your community as you choose, spreading the love of reading and of incredible books. If you’d like to be a part of this amazing event, be sure to sign up by the deadline of 1 February 2012!

Join us in showing the world the wonders of Iain M. Banks and science fiction!