Canadian-British novelist David Szalay’s novel “Flesh,” in which judges say the sparse prose cuts straight to the bone, has made the short list for the Booker Prize.
The sparely written book, an unconventional rags-to-riches tale, is one of six finalists for the prestigious U.K. award.
Through a series of episodes, the book tells the story of a socially isolated young man from his origins in the housing projects of Hungary to the upper echelons of English society — but Booker judge Roddy Doyle says the plot isn’t the point.
“It’s the way the story is told,” he said onstage at a ritzy event in London to announce the prize finalists.
Juror Kiley Reid said the book’s sparse style propels the reader forward.
“It’s just the bones. It’s just so lean, and that’s how the structure is as well,” she said. “There’s years and gaps in (the protagonist’s) life, and we do not see him, but we don’t miss a beat. We don’t miss it. We understand completely where we pick up. Not just chronologically, but in terms of what’s important to the story.”
Szalay was born in Canada, moved to the U.K. a year later, and is now based in Vienna. He previously lived in Hungary.
His 2016 novel “All That Man Is” was also shortlisted for the prize, then known as the Man Booker.
Like “Flesh,” that novel explores issues of masculinity at different stages in men’s lives.
This year’s short list also includes “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 and “The Land in Winter” by Andrew Miller.
The jury that selected the finalists includes actress Sarah Jessica Parker and novelists Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀, and Chris Power, in addition to Reid and Doyle.
The award, which is worth roughly $93,000, is due to be handed out at a ceremony in London on Nov. 10.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 23, 2025.
