India-born Canadian writer Rohinton Mistry, American master of letters Philip Roth and British ‘spy novelist' John le Carré are among the 13 finalists for the £-60,000 Man Booker International Prize, awarded once in two years for life-time achievement.
Mr. le Carré, however, who famously does not compete for prizes, asked for his name to be withdrawn.
In a statement, issued through his literary agent Curtis Brown, he said: “I am enormously flattered to be named as a finalist of the 2011 Man Booker International Prize. However, I do not compete for literary prizes and have, therefore, asked for my name to be withdrawn.”
However, the prize authorities said his name would remain on the list.
Chair of the jury, writer and broadcaster Rick Gekoski, said: “John le Carré's name will, of course, remain on the list. We are disappointed that he wants to withdraw from further consideration, because we are great admirers of his work.”
The list includes two Chinese writers, Wang Anyi and Su Tong, both highly regarded in their own country and abroad. Other finalists include: Juan Goytisolo (Spain); James Kelman (United Kingdom); Amin Maalouf (Lebanon); David Malouf (Australia); Dacia Maraini (Italy); Philip Pullman (U.K.); Marilynne Robinson and Anne Tyler (both U.S.).
Dr. Gekoski described the list as “diverse, fresh and thought-provoking.” “Each of these writers is a delight, and any of them would make a worthy winner,” he said.
The winner will be announced at the Sydney Writers' Festival on May 18.
