M. John Harrison Wins Booker Prize 2026 at 81

M. John Harrison wins Booker Prize 2026

M. John Harrison, 81, wins the 2026 Booker Prize, becoming the oldest recipient.

Award ceremony details

The announcement happened at Old Billingsgate, London, on Monday, September 9.

Prize amount

Harrison receives £50,000 (approximately R$374,000).

Jury members

The jury, chaired by historian Mary Beard, included writers Raymond Antrobus and Patricia Lockwood, critic Rebecca Liu, and musician Jarvis Cocker.

Booker Prize history

The Booker Prize was first awarded in 1969 and expanded eligibility to include authors from any English-speaking country in 2014.

Harrison's background

Harrison began his 'Viriconium' series in 1971 and continued writing until 1984, with other works including 'Tratado de Kefahuchi' (2002-2012).

Harrison's novel

His novel 'The End of Everything' (198 pages) explores a post-apocalyptic setting in Dalston-on-Sea with mysterious life forms called iGhetti.

Harrison's statement

Harrison said, 'You speak with such naturalness about how your life changed, but it's strange when that actually happens. Finally, I feel like a real writer, though I have no confidence.'

“You speak with such naturalness about how your life changed, but it's strange when that actually happens. Finally, I feel like a real writer, though I have no confidence.”