Here are the 13 books that made the Booker Prize longlist

The Booker Prize organization announced the 2026 longlist this Tuesday. This collection highlights 13 books that span multiple genres, ranging from thrillers to science fiction and contemporary love stories. The selection process highlights works published in the U.K. and Ireland between October 1 and September 30.

Notable names return to the list this year. Douglas Stuart, who won the prize in 2020 for Shuggie Bain, is included for his latest work. Marlon James, the 2015 winner for A Brief History of Seven Killings, also makes an appearance. Elizabeth Strout joins them as a three-time nominee for her new novel, The Things We Never Say. Alongside these established authors, the list features three debut writers.

Mary Beard, the chair of the 2026 judging panel, stated that these authors effectively use language to shift reader perspectives and explore new narratives. The prize represents a significant milestone in literary fiction, offering both recognition and a monetary award to the eventual winner.

Six authors from this longlist will move forward to the shortlist. Each of those finalists receives 2,500 pounds. The overall winner, who will be named at a ceremony in London on November 9, receives 50,000 pounds. This announcement marks a central moment for the international publishing industry as readers track which titles earn the final honors.