London - 'Taiwan Travelogue,' penned by Yáng Shuāng-zǐ and translated by Lin King, has been awarded the 2026 International Booker Prize, a victory that underscores the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and re-examining colonial legacies through a progressive lens.

The novel's win signifies a crucial step towards recognizing the diverse experiences of Taiwanese people and challenging the often-silenced narratives of queer individuals within historical contexts. Yáng Shuāng-zǐ and Lin King, the first Taiwanese and Taiwanese-American winners, respectively, will share the £50,000 prize.

The judges, led by Natasha Brown, praised 'Taiwan Travelogue' as a “captivating, slyly sophisticated” work that confronts the complexities of Taiwan's past under Japanese occupation. Set in the 1930s, the novel follows two protagonists on a culinary tour, subtly weaving a tale of romance and resistance against the backdrop of colonial rule.

Yáng Shuāng-zǐ's comparative perspective on colonial experiences, contrasting the Taiwanese and Korean experiences under Japanese rule, highlights the nuances of historical trauma and the varying ways in which communities grapple with their past. Her intention to “untangle the complex circumstances that Taiwan's people faced in the past, and to explore what kind of future we ought to strive toward” speaks to the power of literature to foster critical reflection and social change.

Lin King's translation is particularly noteworthy for its commitment to portraying the fullness of life, even during difficult periods. By incorporating “humour, good food, movies, school, petty fights, and romance” into the narrative, King ensures that the characters are not solely defined by their suffering. This approach offers a more nuanced and humanizing portrayal of historical experiences.

The novel's exploration of queer romance within a historical context is particularly significant, providing a window into a past where LGBTQ+ identities were often suppressed. Lin King's assertion that the novel prevents characters' identities from being “bulldozed over by their suffering” underscores the importance of reclaiming these hidden histories and celebrating the resilience of marginalized communities.

The selection of 'Taiwan Travelogue' from 128 submissions highlights the growing recognition of translated literature and its ability to broaden perspectives and challenge dominant narratives. The shortlisted titles, including 'The Nights Are Quiet in Tehran' and 'On Earth As It Is Beneath,' also represent diverse voices and experiences from around the world.