Choix Goncourt UK 2026: discover the online interviews with shortlisted authors

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The Choix Goncourt UK is a wonderful opportunity for British students with a passion for reading to deepen their appreciation of contemporary French literature. Each year, the initiative brings together students from universities across the United Kingdom to engage with some of the most acclaimed recent works published in France.

This year, fifteen UK-based universities and their students are taking part in the event. Throughout the term, students meet in reading groups to discuss the books selected for the Académie Goncourt’s shortlist, sharing perspectives and debating their favourites. On Friday 27 March 2026, representatives from the participating universities will come together in London to deliberate and choose their own winning title.

As part of the fifth edition of the Choix Goncourt UK, the Maison Française d’Oxford has also recorded a series of online conversations with Nathacha Appanah, Caroline Lamarche, and Laurent Mauvignier. Hosted by Catriona Seth (University of Oxford), these discussions feature readings of selected excerpts performed by Anne de Peufeilhoux, offering audiences a closer insight into the authors’ work and creative processes.

The final selection for the 2025 prize (Goncourt UK 2026) is as follows. Titles are clickable to watch the videos on the MFO YouTube channel.

  • Lundi 9 mars à 12h,  Nathacha Appanah pour " La nuit au coeur " (Gallimard, 2025)

  • Mercredi 11 mars à 12h,  Caroline Lamarche pour " Le Bel Obscur " (Seuil, 2025)

  • Lundi 16 mars, 12h: Laurent Mauvignier pour 'La Maison vide' (Les Éditions de Minuit, 2025)

  • Date tbc: Emmanuel Carrère pour 'Kolkhoze' (P.O.L, 2025)