David Szalay Claims Booker Prize for Spare Novel “Flesh”

Canadian-Hungarian-British author David Szalay has won the prestigious Booker Prize. He received the award for his novel “Flesh” at a ceremony in London. The announcement was made on Monday.

The win caps a competitive field of six finalists. According to Reuters, the judging panel included writer Roddy Doyle and actress Sarah Jessica Parker.

A Unanimous Decision by the Judges

The judges chose “Flesh” unanimously after a long deliberation. The book tells the life story of a man named István. His journey spans from his working-class roots in Hungary to immense wealth in Britain.

Chair judge Roddy Doyle praised the novel’s spare writing style. He said it presents a type of man often overlooked in fiction. The book reveals its protagonist quietly, without elaborate explanation.

Impact on a Writer’s Career and Literary Landscape

Winning the Booker Prize significantly boosts an author’s profile. It comes with a £50,000 award and guarantees a major sales increase. Past winners include literary giants like Salman Rushdie and Margaret Atwood.

For Szalay, the win validates a risky creative approach. His novel features an opaque main character and leaves large parts of his life off the page. This victory signals a celebration of subtle, character-driven storytelling.

The Booker Prize win for “Flesh” confirms David Szalay’s place among contemporary literature’s most compelling voices. This Booker Prize winner has crafted a story that resonates deeply with its quiet power.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is David Szalay?

David Szalay is a 51-year-old author. He was born in Canada to a Hungarian father and Canadian mother. He was raised in Britain and now lives in Vienna.

What is the Booker Prize?

The Booker Prize is a major literary award for English-language fiction. It was founded in 1969. Winning it often transforms an author’s career and greatly increases book sales.

How much money does the Booker Prize winner receive?

The winner receives £50,000. This is approximately $66,000 US dollars. Last year’s winner, Samantha Harvey, advised Szalay to get a good accountant.

What is the novel “Flesh” about?

“Flesh” follows the life of István from Hungary to Britain. It explores his physical experience of life. The story is noted for its sparse prose and unexpressive central character.

Was David Szalay nominated for the Booker before?

Yes, he was a finalist in 2016. His book “All That Man Is” was shortlisted that year. This is his first time winning the prize.