Israeli comic novel up for Booker Prize

A novel about an Israeli stand-up comic having a meltdown on stage is one of six titles shortlisted for this year's Man Booker International Prize, the media reported on Friday.

David Grossman's "A Horse Walks Into a Bar" is one of two books by Israeli authors in line for the 50,000 pounds ($64,060) award, the BBC reported.

The judging panel praised Grossman's work, and called it "an extraordinary story... written with empathy, wisdom and emotional intelligence."

The other Israeli author, Amoz Oz, was previously up for the prize in 2007.

Oz is shortlisted for "Judas", about a young student in 1950s Jerusalem who becomes fascinated with the history of a mysterious old house.

Writers from Argentina, Denmark, France and Norway are also in contention for the award, which jointly recognises authors and their English translators.

Each shortlisted author and translator automatically receives 1,000 pounds, reports the BBC.

Last year's prize went to "The Vegetarian", written by South Korean author Han Kang.

This is only the second year that the prize will be awarded to a single book.

Before 2016, the Man Booker International was awarded every second year to an author for their entire body of work.

--IANS

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