Here is the 2025 Booker shortlist! I had a fun evening at the very first public Booker shortlist announcement and it was so interesting to get an insight into the judging process from the panel. It was endearing how judge Sarah Jessica Parker seemed nervous but she spoke so articulately. What really came across was the judges' passion and excitement to discuss these six novels. You can watch some clips from the evening and my reaction to the shortlist here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJf8AozuctA
It's a strong list overall with 3 of my favourites (“Flesh”, “Flashlight” and “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny”) and 2 I highly admire (“The Land in Winter” and “Audition”). The only book I found a bit tedious to read was “The Rest of Our Lives”, but I was encouraged by how the judges said it develops so much more with a reread so I might go back to it. I was very disappointed “Seascraper” and “Endling” didn't make the shortlist, but hey ho; I still love them. Kiran Desai's publisher must be thrilled that the publication of her novel coincides with it making the shortlist!
What do you think of the shortlist? Have you read some or all of the books? Do you have a favourite or one you're excited to read next?
