Los Angeles, California – The International Booker shortlist for this year features a diverse selection of novels dealing with themes of divided families and societies, according to prize administrator Fiammetta Rocco. Among the shortlisted authors are Korean writer Hwang Sok-yong and German author Jenny Erpenbeck.
Hwang Sok-yong’s novel “Mater 2-10” delves into a century of Korean history through the lens of a family of rail workers and a laid-off factory worker. The book offers a unique perspective on Korea’s partition, providing a worker’s-eye view of the country’s tumultuous past. This marks the third consecutive year that a South Korean author has been nominated for the prize.
On the other hand, Jenny Erpenbeck’s “Kairos” explores a relationship set against the backdrop of the German Democratic Republic’s collapse. The novel, although bleak in its portrayal of love and politics, presents a compelling narrative that captivates readers until the very end.
Brazilian author Itamar Vieira Junior is also among the nominees for his debut novel, “Crooked Plow,” which delves into the lives of subsistence farmers in Brazil following the abolition of slavery. The book offers a unique perspective on resistance and land rights within the context of Brazilian history.
The judging panel, led by broadcaster Eleanor Wachtel, emphasized that the shortlisted novels engage with current realities of racism, oppression, global violence, and ecological disaster. The winning author and translator will be revealed at a ceremony in London on 21 May, with each recipient receiving £25,000.
The list also includes authors such as Selva Almada, Ia Genberg, and Jente Posthuma, each offering a unique perspective and narrative style. The judges praised the depth and authenticity of the storytelling in these novels, highlighting their contributions to contemporary literature.
Overall, the International Booker prize continues to honor outstanding works of fiction from around the world, showcasing the diversity and richness of global literary talent. The shortlist reflects a range of voices and perspectives, inviting readers to explore new narratives and immerse themselves in compelling stories.