David Szalay awarded 2025 Booker Prize for flesh, praised for its daring and unique storytelling

David Szalay has won the 2025 Booker Prize for his novel Flesh, a work described by the judging panel as dark and unlike anything they had encountered. The Hungarian-British author was awarded the £50,000 prize in recognition of his daring approach to narrative and style.

The announcement was made by panel chair Roddy Doyle, who remarked that the judges “had never read anything quite like it.” Doyle highlighted the book’s originality and the risk taken by Szalay in crafting a story that challenges conventional literary forms.

Flesh explores themes of human behaviour and moral ambiguity, combining a darkly humorous perspective with intense characterisation. Critics and readers have praised the novel for its bold approach to structure and tone, noting that it diverges sharply from typical contemporary fiction.

The Booker Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in English-language literature. It is presented annually to a full-length novel written by a citizen of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, or the Republic of Ireland, although non-British citizens may also be considered under certain eligibility rules. Winning authors receive both recognition and a monetary prize, which this year totals £50,000.

Szalay’s work stood out among a competitive shortlist, with judges commending its combination of narrative innovation and thematic depth. Flesh is characterised by its unique approach to storytelling, which employs a mix of narrative voices and interwoven plotlines to explore the complexities of human nature.

Panel members emphasised that the novel challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths while maintaining engagement through compelling writing and sharp observation. The judges’ decision reflects a growing appreciation in literary circles for works that push boundaries and defy conventional categorisation.

David Szalay has a background that spans Hungary and Britain, and his work often draws upon experiences from both cultural contexts. His earlier novels and short stories have earned critical acclaim, establishing him as a writer unafraid to experiment with form and voice. Flesh continues this trajectory, consolidating his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary literature.

Booker Prize winners frequently see a significant impact on both readership and critical attention. In previous years, award recipients have experienced increased book sales and international recognition, opening new opportunities for translation and adaptation. Literary experts suggest that Flesh may now join this tradition, reaching audiences beyond the United Kingdom and receiving further scholarly attention.

The announcement of the prize has already generated discussion among literary commentators, many of whom highlight the novel’s daring structure and the risk inherent in rewarding such experimental work. By selecting Flesh, the judges underscore the importance of innovation and the continued evolution of the novel as a literary form.

Readers and critics alike will now have the opportunity to engage with Szalay’s work and assess its impact on the contemporary literary landscape. Flesh offers both entertainment and intellectual challenge, encouraging reflection on moral ambiguity, human behaviour, and the consequences of individual choices.

The Booker Prize ceremony is set to take place later this year, during which David Szalay will formally accept the award. Publishers and booksellers anticipate heightened interest in Flesh, and literary festivals and events are expected to feature discussions and panels exploring the novel’s themes and techniques.

As the 2025 Booker Prize winner, David Szalay’s Flesh stands as a testament to the enduring value of risk-taking and originality in literature. The judges’ recognition ensures that the novel will be studied, discussed, and appreciated by readers and critics for years to come.