M John Harrison wins Booker Prize at age 81

Ceremony details and prize value

Harrison accepted the award at a ceremony held in London on Monday night. The prize carries a monetary value of 50,000 British pounds or approximately 95,000 US dollars according to some reports. He expressed surprise while accepting the honour for his dystopian work. The novel features a scavenger named Phillip Tennent who finds an artefact on a beach. Harrison thanked his publisher Serpent's Tail and his partner Casper for their support during the process.

Judges selection and shortlist

Chair of the judges Mary Beard described the book as politics seen through a future lens. The panel unanimously chose Harrison over other finalists including Marlon James and Douglas Stuart. Six novels made the final shortlist after judges reviewed 163 entries throughout the year. Previous winners like Shehan Karunatilaka were also considered during the judging process in recent years. Beard noted that concerns about artificial intelligence were high on the judges minds this year.

Themes and author response

Harrison stated that current affairs provided the themes and satire for his latest book. He explained that the story explores what happens when societal expectations become an ongoing disaster. The plot involves mysterious objects called iGhetti which can imitate humans in a post-apocalyptic Britain. Harrison said he felt like a proper writer at last after forty or fifty years of effort. Critics noted this was his first time being shortlisted for the coveted literary award.