The future of British and Irish literary excellence is secure in the hands of innovative and daring writers. The unveiling of the shortlist for the 2025 Sunday Times Charlotte Aitken Young Writer of the Year Award sends a powerful message that the upcoming generation is actively engaged in breaking down societal and political barriers, rather than just being absorbed by technology.
For more than three decades, this prestigious award has been a significant platform for identifying influential voices that shape our cultural landscape. Previous winners have included renowned authors like Zadie Smith, Sarah Waters, and Caryl Phillips.
The tradition of recognizing exceptional talent continues with a shortlist characterized by its bold empathy and unwavering commitment to addressing the harsh realities of our world. Johanna Thomas-Corr, the head literary critic for The Times and Sunday Times and chair of the 2025 jury, praised the selected works as outward-looking and deeply concerned with societal issues and our mutual responsibilities.
The judging panel, comprising influential figures such as Caleb Femi, Esther Freud, Graham Norton, Sathnam Sanghera, and Lea Ypi, emphasized the importance of narratives that foster unity and challenge existing norms, offering a counterbalance to the isolation prevalent in the digital era.
The four finalists competing for the £10,000 prize offer a diverse range of perspectives. Ben Brooks presents “The Greatest Possible Good,” a humorous family saga that explores the concept of a virtuous man in today’s complex world. Gurnaik Johal introduces “Saraswati,” a debut novel that takes readers on a global adventure uncovering a lost river in Northern India, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity across borders.
Another contender is the poignant “Every One Still Here” by the anonymous writer Liadan Ní Chuinn, a collection of short stories delving into the enduring trauma of post-conflict Northern Ireland. By opting to remain anonymous, Ní Chuinn allows the collective weight of history to speak louder than any individual voice.
One of the most audacious works in the running is Harry Shukman’s “Year of the Rat,” a compelling piece of investigative non-fiction recounting his undercover experiences infiltrating far-right groups in the UK, offering crucial insights in a time of increasing extremism.
The winner will be revealed at the Barbican Centre on Monday, 23rd March, where Booker Prize laureate Bernardine Evaristo will lead a panel discussion with the finalists, aiming to ensure these groundbreaking stories reach young audiences through the Young Barbican program, promoting wider access to literary excellence.
The ultimate announcement and award ceremony will take place the following evening, Tuesday, 24th March, at the Whitechapel Gallery in the vibrant and culturally rich East End of London. On this night, one of these bold authors will be crowned the champion, securing their position among a lineage of distinguished literary figures.
