Booker Shortlist 2023: If I Survive You by Jonathan Escoffery

If I Survive You by Jonathan Escoffery

Will this be the lone Shortlist Survivor? Also known as the winner?

BookWorm:  Surprisingly enjoyable collection of integrated short stories revolving around a central family.

Why it Could Win: It deals with issues of race and belonging in a manner that makes it real to the reader. Second person narrative is an interesting technique and it worked for this collection. Inclusion of Patois.

Why it Might Not Win: There are stronger books on the shortlist.

Jen:

Why it Could Win: It’s the only book on the shortlist that delves into issues of race, identity, and manhood and does so in an interesting way.

Why it Might Not Win: I don’t think it stands a chance against some of the other contenders. I didn’t find it particularly memorable. I read it at the start of our longlist journey and mostly forgot about it. I had to go back and re-read my review to remember my feelings about it. Never a good sign when the book doesn’t stand out in any meaningful way.

Tracy:

Why it Could Win: This was a different book for the Booker list in many ways: second person narration, short stories that are connected into a novel, and inclusion of patois as a queer male explores his race and identity. This was initially published in the US, but the author is US/Jamaican.

Why it Might Not Win: I wish it was more interesting. None of the stories really stuck in my mind. I think the author will be better with his next book.

Nicole:

Why it Could Win:  Diversity

Why it Might Not Win:  IMO, it was good but not strong enough to be on the longlist, let alone shortlisted

Lisa: 

Why it Could Win:  I like the structure — short stories that revolve around a young man, Trelawny, but also illuminate different perspectives from different family members. This novel illustrates the complexities of racial labels and the impact on people who are labeled. The author treats other themes, such as immigration and homelessness, in a nuanced way.

Why it Might Not Win:  It’s an American novel.  But I think it is a strong candidate.

Anita:

Why it Could Win:  Insightful novel on hot topics, including racism, homelessness, and immigration, that enlightens without being condescending.  The structure is original for this particular prize.

Why it Might Not Win:  The book lacks a “wow” factor and is lackluster emotionally, except for one chapter that felt like it didn’t quite belong in the rest of the book.

Have you read this one? Do you think it is the winner?