British-Hungarian author David Szalay has just snagged the Booker Prize for his latest novel, Flesh. Judges hailed it as “extraordinary” and noted its unique approach to storytelling.
Flesh dives into the life of an enigmatic and emotionally distant man. The narrative moves from a Hungarian housing estate to the lavish world of London’s elite. Roddy Doyle, the chair of the judging panel, shared, “What we loved was its singularity. It’s unlike any other book out there. It’s dark, but so enjoyable to read.”
The reception has been notable. Celebrities like Dua Lipa and Stormzy have endorsed the book, sparking social media buzz and discussions about its intense themes. Recently, Stormzy even recorded an excerpt for a short film shown during the award ceremony, showcasing the book’s impact beyond just the page.
After winning, Szalay admitted he felt “a bit dazed.” He had convinced himself he wouldn’t win, so the moment was surreal. But he was thrilled, noting it would take time for everything to sink in. His book was highlighted by Dua Lipa as a “tense and gripping read,” affirming its broad appeal.
Critical reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. The Guardian praised it as a “brilliantly spare portrait of a man,” while the Sunday Times highlighted Szalay’s ability to encapsulate the experiences of modern man through the eyes of a single character, Istvan.
Szalay’s writing style has attracted attention for its minimalism. Critics noted his use of “white space” to convey emotions. Roddy Doyle remarked how much is communicated without the need for extensive dialogue, pointing out that even grief is depicted through blank pages, allowing the reader to feel the weight behind the words.
The Booker judges deliberated for over five hours to select Flesh as the winner among six shortlisted novels. They found it “honest and heartbreaking,” showcasing Szalay’s unique narrative depth. Gaby Wood, from the Booker Prize Foundation, reflected the judges’ sentiments, stating Szalay’s work is innovative and engaging.
Interestingly, Szalay previously received a Booker nomination for his 2016 novel, All That Man Is, which also explored themes of masculinity.
The other shortlisted contenders included:
- Flashlight by Susan Choi
- The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai
- Audition by Katie Kitamura
- The Rest of Our Lives by Ben Markovits
- The Land in Winter by Andrew Miller
The Booker Prize is the UK’s top fiction award, opening doors for authors who craft impactful narratives in English. Notable past winners showcase the rich history of literary excellence associated with this prestigious accolade.
