Hungarian-British writer David Szalay has won the 2025 Booker Prize for his novel Flesh. This is one of the most important awards in English-language literature.
Flesh tells the story of a man who moves from a poor area in Hungary to the wealthy neighborhoods of London. The judges said the book explores class, power, relationships, migration, and masculinity. They also praised Szalay’s writing style and the way he organizes the story, which makes readers think deeply about the characters.
In his speech after winning, Szalay talked about feeling like an outsider in both Hungary and Britain. He said writing Flesh helped him express this feeling of being “in between” two countries and cultures.
The Booker Prize gives the winner £50,000, while shortlisted authors and translators receive £2,500 each. The prize often helps books reach a much bigger audience and gain more recognition.
Roddy Doyle, the chair of the judges, said Flesh is “a dark book but a joy to read.” He highlighted how Szalay uses space on the page creatively, letting readers imagine the story and connect with the characters.
David Szalay is no stranger to the Booker Prize. His 2016 book All That Man Is was shortlisted. His win this year shows the prize’s focus on recognizing talented writers from around the world.
With this award, Flesh will likely reach readers across the globe. Its themes of migration, identity, and social change are very relevant today.
