G. (novel)

G. is a novel published in 1972 by John Berger, set against the backdrop of Europe before the First World War. The central figure, "G.", resembles a Don Juan archetype who gains political insight through his experiences across the continent.

Berger's innovative and non-sequential storytelling earned him the Guardian Fiction Prize, the James Tait Black Memorial Prize, and the Booker Prize. During the 1972 Booker award event, Berger openly condemned the sponsor Booker-McConnall for its 130-year history of exploiting Caribbean trade. He allocated half of his prize winnings to the British Black Panther movement to aid efforts against Caribbean exploitation.

Reception

Academic Leo Braudy wrote in The New York Times: "The novel 'G.' derives much of its impact and allure from an unusual blend of historical context and reflections on sexuality... It is a sophisticated work of ideas that encourages contemplation on themes such as sex, history, and the essence of novel-writing."

Kirkus Reviews described it as "a striking, intensely energetic, detached, and exceptional piece of literature."