A novel praised for its unique style and human insight

Hungarian-British writer David Szalay has been awarded the 2025 Booker Prize for his novel Flesh, a work described by the judges as unlike anything they had read before. Jury chair Roddy Doyle praised the novel for how it “invites the reader to participate in creating the character,” highlighting Szalay’s innovative use of white space on the page.

The Booker Prize is one of the most prestigious honors in the English-speaking literary world. It recognizes the best novel written in English and published in the United Kingdom each year. The winner receives £50,000, along with increased international recognition and book sales.

A story of contrasts and identity

At the center of Flesh is István, a quiet and reflective man navigating life between Hungary and England. Through his minimalist dialogue and internal perspective, Szalay explores class divisions, cultural contrasts, and the human experience in a rapidly changing Europe.

The author explained that his inspiration came from his own life between the two countries, observing the inequalities that shape modern society. “I wanted to write about life as a physical experience — what it means to be a living body in the world,” Szalay said.

Finalists and judging panel

Flesh was chosen over five other finalists: Flashlight by Susan Choi, The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai, Audition by Katie Kitamura, The Rest of Our Lives by Ben Markovitsy The Land in Winter by Andrew Miller.

This year’s judging panel included Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀, Chris Power, Kiley Reidy Sarah Jessica Parker, who praised Szalay’s work for its originality and emotional resonance.