2025 Booker Shortlist: Flashlight

Next up is Flashlight by Susan Choi. You can read our short reviews here: Flashlight. The novel made it onto 2 of our predictions lists, with only Tracy and Anita predicting it would make the shortlist. The Booker judges had this to say about the book…

‘Flashlight is a sprawling novel that weaves stories of national upheavals with those of Louisa, her Korean Japanese father, Serk, and Anne, her American mother. Evolving from the uncertainties surrounding Serk’s disappearance, it is a riveting exploration of identity, hidden truths, race, and national belonging. In this ambitious book that deftly criss-crosses continents and decades, Susan Choi balances historical tensions and intimate dramas with remarkable elegance. We admired the shifts and layers of Flashlight’s narrative, which ultimately reveal a story that is intricate, surprising, and profound.’

What does our panel think of the odds of this book being this year’s winner? Keep reading to find out

Jen’s Thoughts: I did enjoy this book and it was a different pace than the majority of books on the list. I find books that center on identity interesting and I like her writing style quite bit. I didn’t think it would make the shortlist but I am not unhappy to see it on the list.
Why it Could Win: This year’s list is mostly packed with very slow-moving, atmospheric, meditative novels. Flashlight stands out from that group so may snag the prize (perhaps its biggest competition coming from the Desai book).
Why it Might Not Win: It does feel drawn out at times and I don’t think it can beat the Desai book.

Nicole’s Thoughts:
Why it Could Win: This book is the novel form of our attention spans – all over the place.
Why it Might Not Win:  It’s fine, but it was all over the place.

Tracy’s Thoughts: I was fully engaged with this book, and it taught me something. Love when that happens!
Why it Could Win: It is well-crafted, with realistic characters and a story that quietly comments on the current state of the world.
Why it Might Not Win: It flies under the radar- there’s just not a lot of buzz.

Anita’s Thoughts:
Why it Could Win: If any judges put plot first, I can see how the narrative arc of Flashlight would possibly be the most pleasing.
Why it Might Not Win:  This book felt so overwritten to me. And for some readers, that equates to boring. There’s literally nothing that the reader is left to infer. Yes, there’s a bit of a plot twist, but it’s made very explicit later in the book. The ending did nothing for me at all.

Try the book for yourself! You can purchase a copy here: Flashlight

We want to hear from you? Have you read this one? Tell us what you thought of the book (link to your reviews or add a brief blurb in the comments). Do you think is will be the winner?