British Author M John Harrison's ‘The End of Everything’ Wins 2026 Booker Prize

London: British writer M John Harrison has won the 2026 Booker Prize for his novel 'The End of Everything'. At 81, Harrison becomes the oldest person to win the prestigious literary award.

The winner was announced at a ceremony held at Old Billingsgate in London on Monday. The prize carries £50,000 (approximately Rs 62 lakh) and a trophy.

Active in the literary world for six decades, 'The End of Everything' is Harrison’s 13th novel. He is known for his works in science fiction, fantasy, and horror. His debut novel, 'The Committed Men', was published in 1971.

A five-member judging panel chaired by renowned historian Mary Beard selected The End of Everything from 163 entries. The novel portrays a future Britain following an unexplained catastrophe. At 198 pages, it was the shortest book on the shortlist.

Harrison has surpassed the record set by Canadian author Margaret Atwood, who shared the Booker Prize at the age of 79 in 2019. He also becomes the first science fiction writer to win the Booker Prize. Independent publisher Serpent’s Tail has won the award for the first time.

Harrison’s novel 'Nova Swing' won the Arthur C Clarke Award in 2007, while 'The Sunken Land Begins to Rise Again' received the Goldsmiths Prize in 2020. He was also a member of the judging panel for the 2022 Booker Prize.