The future of British and Irish literary talent shines brightly as the shortlist for the 2025 Sunday Times Charlotte Aitken Young Writer of the Year Award is revealed. This prestigious award has a rich history of identifying influential voices in our society, with past winners including renowned authors like Zadie Smith, Sarah Waters, and Caryl Phillips.
The current shortlist continues this tradition by showcasing works that boldly confront societal issues and emphasize the interconnectedness of humanity. Johanna Thomas-Corr, the chair of the 2025 jury and chief literary critic for The Times and Sunday Times, praised the selected pieces for their outward focus and exploration of social responsibilities.
The judging panel, consisting of cultural influencers such as Caleb Femi, Esther Freud, Graham Norton, Sathnam Sanghera, and Lea Ypi, prioritized narratives that challenge norms and unite diverse perspectives. The four finalists competing for the £10,000 prize offer a range of unique viewpoints.
Ben Brooks presents “The Greatest Possible Good,” a witty exploration of modern morality within a family setting. Gurnaik Johal’s debut novel, “Saraswati,” takes readers on a global quest through Northern India, revealing the common threads that bind us across borders.
An anonymous author, Liadan Ní Chuinn, delves into the enduring aftermath of conflict in Northern Ireland with the poignant collection “Every One Still Here.” Lastly, Harry Shukman’s “Year of the Rat” offers a gripping exposé on his undercover investigation of far-right groups in the UK, shedding light on the rise of extremism.
The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Barbican Centre on March 23, where Bernardine Evaristo, Booker Prize-winner and advocate for marginalized voices, will lead a panel discussion with the finalists. This collaboration aims to make these thought-provoking stories accessible to a wider audience, particularly young readers, through the Young Barbican program.
The crowning ceremony will take place on March 24 at the Whitechapel Gallery, where one of these bold authors will be honored, cementing their place among the esteemed lineage of literary greats.