Literary Titans Compete Again: Kiran Desai's Epic Return to the Booker Prize

After a long hiatus from the literary scene, Indian author Kiran Desai is back in the spotlight, having been shortlisted for the Booker Prize once again. Desai's new work, 'The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny,' marks her first novel since her previous Booker-winning title in 2006, 'The Inheritance of Loss.'

This year, 13 novels have been selected as semifinalists for the prestigious 50,000-pound prize. The lineup includes writers from nine diverse countries, showcasing a rich array of stories and perspectives. Desai's epic, alongside other contenders, promises to explore themes of identity and culture across global landscapes.

The announcement follows a tradition dating back to 1969, where the Booker Prize has significantly impacted the careers of many authors across the globe. The list will be narrowed down to six finalists on September 23, with the grand winner being revealed at a ceremony in London on November 10.

(With inputs from agencies.)