A controversial Dom Mintoff biography is among 43 books shortlisted for the 2022 National Book Prize, according to a notice in the Government Gazette. The Tail that Wagged the Dog: The Life and Struggles of Dom Mintoff (1916–2012), penned by Dominican friar and historian Mark Montebello, made headlines following its publication last year after the former prime minister's daughters dissociated themselves from the book. They claimed the publication is “riddled with inaccuracies, factual distortions, unsubstantiated allegations, hearsay, and lies”. Shortly after, the Labour Party stopped selling the biography from its headquarters and banned any discussion related to the book on its media network. The 640-page publication was published by Labour's own publisher Sensiela Kotba Soċjalisti. The book lifted the lid on the former prime minister's family life, which had for many years been shrouded in secrecy. It traces Mintoff’s life from childhood, right through his formative years, his studies in the UK, his private practice as an architect and his eventful political career, characterised by his "battles" with the Church and the British government. According to the notice, a total...