This is not the “official” shortlist from the Shadow Jury with whom I am privileged to read. We plan to reveal what we, as a group, think should be on the short list for the Booker International Prize 2020 on April 10. But, as the official list from the Booker Prize will be released tomorrow, I wanted to submit my six favorites from the thirteen books on the long list.
My very favorite was The Other Name, a quietly contemplative book with which I felt a great compassion and identity. Next, comes The Enlightenment of The Greengage Tree for its incredible power to make magical realism effective in relaying the horrors of the revolution in Iran. Then, comes The Memory Police because it has made me think about the power of memory and loss. After that is Little Eyes for its ability to explore the encroachment of technology in our lives (although, I must say that technology has certainly been a boon during this time of isolation!). The Eighth Life is included because it portrays a family’s story with great poignancy. Finally, Hurricane Season must be considered because it is written with such raw ugliness that I cannot forget it, and it has shown me what a safe life I have been privileged to live.
I am eager to see what the list from the Booker Prize will include, as it is revealed tomorrow, April 2, 2020.
Dolce Bellezza 
Lovely to see the two I have read made your list (2 & 3), I haven’t gone out of my way to read any others this year, happy to watch from the sidelines.
LikeLike
It is a difficult time to read literature with heavy themes. I found this year’s list to be quite good, in general, but even a steady dose of woe and heartache, while well written, can become overwhelming. I find myself turning to childhood favorites now, and escape literature, such as The Far Pavilions. And you? Are you doing well enough?❤️
LikeLike
Really enjoyed The memory police. Haven’t read the others as yet.
LikeLike
I want to read several of these! I am currently reading The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree and really love the style but sadly my mind is all over the place and I haven’t given it enough attention. Hope you are doing well!
LikeLike