David Szalay Claims 2025 Booker Prize with “Flesh”

David Szalay has emerged as the unexpected winner of the prestigious 2025 Booker Prize with his novel, “Flesh.” In a recent victory speech, he emphasized the significance of risk-taking in literature.
Embracing Risk in Writing
Szalay expressed that the literary community should welcome risks instead of avoiding them. He believes that this mindset is crucial for creativity and innovation in storytelling.
Background on “Flesh”
The author revealed that “Flesh” came into existence after he decided to abandon a different project he had been nurturing for two years. Szalay acknowledged the pressure that accompanied this transition and how it influenced his writing process.
- Book Title: Flesh
- Author: David Szalay
- Award: 2025 Booker Prize
- Previous Project: Unnamed novel, worked on for two years
The Writing Process
Szalay admitted that writing “Flesh” was not a straightforward journey. He faced numerous challenges along the way. Despite the difficulties, Szalay’s commitment to embracing these risks ultimately led to his success.
His victory serves as an inspiration for aspiring writers, reinforcing the idea that embracing uncertainty can lead to rewarding outcomes in the world of literature.




