Prophet Song longlisted for the Booker Prize 2023

Prophet Song has been longlisted for The Booker Prize 2023. The book, due to be published in September 2023, will now be published on 24 August. The longlist this year comprises 13 novels, four of which are Irish novelists.

In a citation, the jury said: "Paul Lynch’s harrowing and dystopian Prophet Song vividly renders a mother’s determination to protect her family as Ireland’s liberal democracy slides inexorably and terrifyingly into totalitarianism. Readers will find it timely and unforgettable. It’s a remarkable accomplishment for a novelist to capture the social and political anxieties of our moment so compellingly".

In the Guardian, Justine Jordinson said: "It’s refreshing to see Lynch’s dystopia nominated for a prize often focused on historical fiction, and this is an impressive novel in stylistic as well as political terms, staying close to one woman’s consciousness throughout. Eilish must try to maintain normal family life after her husband is detained by the police for union activity; Lynch is brilliant at capturing people’s disbelief and denial throughout the slow slide into totalitarianism. An urgent, important read."

Prophet Song will be launched on 23 August in Hodges, Figgis, Dublin at 6pm. All welcome.