Taiwanese Author Wins International Booker Prize

Why this is here: The Brazilian novel “Assim na terra como embaixo da terra” received a review from Argentinian critic Beatriz Sarlo, who described the novel’s violence as pervasive and detailed in 2017.

Taiwanese writer Yáng Shuāng-zǐ won the International Booker Prize in London on Tuesday, May 19th. She received the award for her book “Taiwan Travelogue,” besting Brazilian author Ana Paula Maia and other international nominees. Shuāng-zǐ will share the £50,000 prize—roughly $330,000—with translator Lin King.

In her acceptance speech, Shuāng-zǐ asserted the unavoidable link between literature and politics, especially when considering Taiwan’s modern literary history. Ana Paula Maia, from Rio de Janeiro and now based in Curitiba, was nominated for her novel “Assim na terra como embaixo da terra,” which previously won the Prêmio São Paulo de Literatura in 2018. The novel depicts life inside a closing penal colony where the director hunts inmates for sport.

Though Maia did not win, her work is gaining international attention. Following her Booker nomination, five Turkish publishers expressed interest in her books.

Her novel has also been included on reading lists in Argentinian schools. Maia is currently working on a new book, “O tenebroso brilho do sol,” which will explore folk horror themes.