It’s not every day a local poet and author lands on the shortlist for one of the world’s most prestigious literary prize with a novel about a man wearing a giant bag.
But then again, Brum has always done things a bit differently, hasn't it?
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It's a no brainer really.
Luke Kennard, Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Birmingham, has been shortlisted for the 2026 Booker Prize for Black Bag, his brilliantly absurd, Black Mirror-ish satire and "off-kilter love story." The novel follows a struggling actor who accepts a bizarre gig: donning a massive bag made of black leather and silently attending lectures as part of a psychology experiment led by a mysterious professor. Through this surreal setup, Kennard explores modern masculinity, identity, and connection with sharp wit, warmth, and brutal honesty. Standing alongside literary heavyweights like former winners Marlon James and Douglas Stuart, and Elizabeth Strout, Luke is flying the flag for Second City storytelling on the global stage ahead of the winner announcement this November.
To celebrate this huge achievement, The Dispatch is hosting an exclusive evening featuring an in-depth conversation with the author himself.
On Thursday 22nd October, join us at The Actress & Bishop as Luke chats with The Dispatch's founding editor, Kate Knowles, to unpack the madness, heart, and hilarious social commentary behind one of the year's most talked-about books.
Event Details
📅 Date & Time: Thursday 22 October, 6:30pm - 8:00pm (Please take your seat 10 minutes before start)
📍 Venue: The Actress & Bishop, 36 Ludgate Hill, Birmingham, B3 1EH
🎟 Tickets: £3 Members // £6 Non-Members
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Why not stick around after the talk? Grab a drink, chat with the team, and celebrate this massive moment for Brum’s literary scene. We'd love for you to join us!
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