Overview
- The Booker Prize Foundation announced the six‑book shortlist on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, after judges pared July’s longlist to a final set of contenders.
- The shortlisted titles are The End of Everything by M. John Harrison, The Disappearers by Marlon James, Black Bag by Luke Kennard, May We Feed the King by Rebecca Perry, The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout, and John of John by Douglas Stuart.
- Former winners Marlon James and Douglas Stuart are both on the list and could join the four authors who have won the Booker twice if either takes the 2026 prize.
- M. John Harrison, aged 81 and nominated for the first time, could become the oldest ever Booker winner if he prevails, a record currently held by Margaret Atwood at 79.
- A five‑member panel chaired by Mary Beard selected the shortlist from 163 submissions, each shortlisted author will receive £2,500, the winner will receive £50,000, and the final prize will be announced at a London ceremony on November 9, 2026.