‘Flesh’ Captures 2025 Booker Prize with Unprecedented Storytelling

David Szalay’s novel, Flesh, has made history by winning the prestigious 2025 Booker Prize. This Hungarian-British author’s sixth book presents a unique narrative journey through various societies.

A Profound Narrative Journey

At the heart of Flesh is István, a character whose quiet demeanor belies a complex existence. He navigates life’s extremes, from poverty in Hungary to the opulence of England’s elite. Szalay crafts István’s story with sparse dialogue, allowing readers to dive deep into his experiences.

Judges’ Praise for Innovative Storytelling

The chair of this year’s Booker Prize, Roddy Doyle, expressed admiration for Szalay’s unique approach. “We had never read anything quite like it,” Doyle remarked. He highlighted how the author effectively utilizes white spaces on the page, inviting readers to engage with the text imaginatively.

Booker Prize Significance

• The Booker Prize recognizes the best English-language novels published in the U.K.
• Winners receive £50,000 and an increase in book sales.

Compelling Competitors

Flesh surpassed five other noteworthy contenders for the award:

• 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

Szalay’s Inspiration

Szalay drew inspiration for Flesh from his personal experiences living in both Hungary and England. His observations of cultural and economic divides in contemporary Europe shaped the narrative. He aims to explore life from the perspective of the physical experience, emphasizing what it means to be a living body in the world.

Looking Ahead

As a past Booker nominee for his 2016 book All That Man Is, Szalay’s win with Flesh solidifies his position as a significant contemporary voice in literature. The award not only amplifies his work but also invites a broader discussion about the themes of identity and displacement in modern Europe.