The Disappearers

Marlon James returns to the Booker Prize stage with his 2026 longlisted novel, The Disappearers. Set in Kingston, Jamaica during the late 1980s, the narrative follows eight men brought together for a theater production. These individuals represent diverse backgrounds, yet they share a common identity as gay men living in a place that presents significant, life-threatening risks to their existence.

The plot takes a sharp turn following a violent homophobic attack that kills one of the men. James shifts from the initial theatrical premise to a study of the aftermath. As the survivors recover, they must manage the trauma left by the violence. Some characters choose to suppress their experience, while others pursue retribution, moving the story toward a tense, reckoning-driven conclusion.

Critics highlight the novel for its unflinching look at queer life in Jamaica during a turbulent period of history. The author employs a mix of formats to tell the story, including journal entries, letters, and interview fragments. This structure creates a visceral experience for the reader, matching the intensity of his previous award-winning work, A Brief History of Seven Killings.

The Booker Prize judges described the book as an ambitious project that explores territory rare in Caribbean literature. They praised the dialogue for being sharp and propulsive, noting that James moves between painful observation and dark humor with ease. The novel stands as a clear-eyed investigation into the contradictions of Jamaican society.

Readers can find the book through major retailers in hardback, audio, and digital formats. By purchasing through the provided links on the Booker Prize website, buyers contribute to the charity efforts of the foundation. The Disappearers stands out as a significant entry in this year’s competition, marking another milestone in the career of a singular literary talent.