The International Booker Prize shortlist for 2026 presents a remarkable diversity in geography and style, ranging from Brazil to Taiwan and from mainstream narratives to experimental works. Independent presses continue to shine, providing four of the six titles. For the first time in the prize's decade-long history, all shortlisted books feature the translator's name on the front cover. The winner will be announced on 19 May.
The Nights Are Quiet in Tehran by Shida Bazyar
German-Iranian novelist Shida Bazyar's The Nights Are Quiet in Tehran (Scribe), translated by Ruth Martin, explores the plight of Iranians as victims of history across three decades. The narrative follows four members of an Iranian family: in 1979, young Behzad welcomes the Islamic revolution but sees his communist hopes dashed; he and his wife Nahid flee to Germany. Their daughter Laleh visits Iran in 1999, struck by cultural differences, while in 2009, Laleh's brother Mo observes protests across the Middle East with heartbreaking optimism. This timely novel offers depth and empathy, making it a worthy contender.
The Witch by Marie NDiaye
Marie NDiaye's The Witch (Vintage), translated by Jordan Stump, is a reissue from 1996. Narrator Lucie, a witch who cries tears of blood when she sees futures, teaches her daughters her powers. The novel combines supernatural elements with a comedy of domestic discontent: her husband absconds with money, and she tries to reunite her separated parents. While accessible and surprising, the accelerating plot and arbitrary ending may hinder its chances.
On Earth As It Is Beneath by Ana Paula Maia
Brazilian author Ana Paula Maia's On Earth As It Is Beneath (Charco), translated by Padma Viswanathan, is set in a penal colony where only three prisoners remain under warden Melquíades, who hunts them down. The story blends absurdity and grotesque violence into an existential thriller, with classic sitcom dynamics. At just 100 pages, it is eccentric but deserving, loosely connected to Maia's previous novel Of Cattle and Men.
She Who Remains by Rene Karabash
Bulgarian writer Rene Karabash's She Who Remains (Peirene), translated by Izidora Angel, is formally inventive, narrated by 33-year-old Bekija in rural Albania. The prose poetry style, without full stops, reveals her violent father, a jilted fiancé, and her decision to become a sworn virgin. While powerful, the eccentric form keeps readers at a distance; it is a long shot for the prize.
Taiwan Travelogue by Yáng Shuāg-zi
Taiwanese author Yáng Shuāg-zi's Taiwan Travelogue (And Other Stories), translated by Lin King, is a novel disguised as a rediscovered travel memoir from 1938. Japanese-Taiwanese novelist Aoyama tours Taiwan's food scene, growing fond of her guide Chi-chan. The story explores gender and class constraints, but its complex structure may be window dressing. Charming but perhaps not weighty enough to win.
The Director by Daniel Kehlmann
Daniel Kehlmann's The Director (Riverrun), translated by Ross Benjamin, is the most mainstream shortlisted novel, depicting German filmmaker GW Pabst's experiences under Nazi rule. Pabst must decide whether to work for the regime to continue making films. The book features vivid characters, including Leni Riefenstahl, and explores the impossibility of remaining apolitical. With traditional form, direct plot, and chilling relevance, it is a popular and deserving contender.
