A thriller about meeting a flattering world

David Szalay's novel "Kött" (Meat) has achieved the prestigious Booker Prize, a significant recognition for contemporary literature. However, this acclaim is shadowed by accusations of plagiarism, adding a layer of controversy to the work. Cecilia Hansson's review in Svenska Dagbladet delves into the novel's intricate narrative, describing it as a work that "swirls in all sorts of directions, in its own right."

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David Szalay has received the Booker Prize for his novel 'Kött' – but has also been accused of plagiarism.

The story centers on István, a sensitive 15-year-old navigating a subdued Hungarian small town in the era after the fall of the Iron Curtain. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is seduced by his neighbor, a 42-year-old woman. This affair leads to tragic consequences, including the accidental death of the neighbor's husband during a confrontation, ultimately resulting in István's placement in a youth institution.

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Cecilia Hansson reads a novel that swirls in all sorts of directions, in its own right.

Hansson's critique suggests that "Kött" is a novel that, despite its controversial reception, commands attention for its ambitious scope and thematic depth. The review acknowledges the novel's ability to captivate and provoke, positioning it as a significant, albeit debated, literary event. The focus remains on the literary merit and the complex human drama presented, inviting readers to engage with Szalay's work on its own terms, while acknowledging the surrounding discourse.

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István is only 15 when he is seduced by the neighbor's wife. It happens in a Hungarian, rather dreary small town, in a timeless existence after the fall of the iron curtain.