Booker Longlist predictions

If any year is going to prove a tough one to call, the first Booker Prize with added Americans is it. As I compiled this list, I kept wondering why it was that for the first time, I was struggling to see a large dividing line between the US and all other countries. Of the ones that went instantly on my list, only one was American. After spending all that time fretting we wouldn't be able to keep up, were non-American's just limbering up. I don't know. One thing this year proves is the only way to really judge is to read all 160 titles submitted.

That said, these are my predictions. These are based on what I think will make it and those which I loved too much not to exclude. In 2011 I got 8 out 13 correct; since then I've got no more than two. Here's hoping for a better return this year.

A God in Every Stone – Kamila Shamsee

All the Days and Nights – Niven Govinden

Dept. of Speculation – Jenny Offill

I am China –Xiaolu Guo

Munich Airport – Greg Baxter

Eyrie – Tim Winton

The Emperor Waltz – Philip Hensher

The Free – Willy Vlautin

The Goldfinch – Donna Tartt

The Lives of Others – Neel Mukherjee

The Paying Guests – Sarah Waters

The Zone of Interest – Martin Amis

Upstairs at the Party - Linda Grant