81-year-old British writer M. John Harrison wins Booker Prize, becomes oldest-ever winner

London (The Uttam Hindu News): Renowned British author M. John Harrison has won the prestigious 2026 Booker Prize for his much-discussed novel The End of Everything. At the age of 81, Harrison has created history by winning the literary honour, becoming the oldest author ever to receive the Booker Prize. His name was officially announced late Monday night at a grand ceremony held at Old Billingsgate in London. He received prize money of £50,000 (approximately Rs 62 lakh).

Unanimously chosen after competing with five renowned authors, makes history in science fiction

A five-member jury chaired by renowned historian and classicist Mary Beard unanimously selected Harrison’s novel after considering the works of the other five shortlisted authors. The achievement is considered particularly significant because Harrison has become the first author from the established science fiction community to win the mainstream Booker Prize. The jury described his 198-page novel as a sharp, precise and satirical work set in post-apocalyptic Britain.

Breaks Canadian author Margaret Atwood’s record after six decades of writing

M. John Harrison has broken the previous record for the oldest Booker Prize winner, which was held by Canadian author Margaret Atwood. In 2019, Atwood was jointly awarded the Booker Prize with British writer Bernardine Evaristo for their respective novels The Testaments and Girl, Woman, Other. At the time, Atwood was 79 years old. Harrison’s latest work is his 13th novel in a literary career spanning nearly six decades, bringing him the highest international recognition.

What is The End of Everything about, and which contemporary concerns does the novel explore?

The End of Everything is set in a barren and deserted post-apocalyptic world along the Kent coast of England. The story revolves around Philip Tennant, who earns his living by collecting old objects washed ashore with his elderly aunt, Marnie. His monotonous life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a mysterious figure on the coast that can constantly change its shape.

The incident occurs just as strange creatures called ‘iGhetti’ begin arriving in the area, creating fear among the residents. This unique blend of science fiction, dystopia and satire takes a sharp look at major human concerns of the present era, including artificial intelligence (AI), uncontrolled technology, environmental destruction and political crises.