Albanian-American writer Ledia Xhoga has made it to the longlist of the 2025 Booker Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious literary awards, with her debut novel “Misinterpretation.”

Set in modern-day New York, the novel follows an Albanian interpreter who reluctantly translates therapy sessions for Alfred, a torture survivor from Kosovo. As she becomes entangled in his trauma, her own suppressed memories and emotional turmoil surface—culminating in an impulsive trip to Albania and a dangerous turn of events.

Published by Daunt Books Originals, Misinterpretation has been praised for its emotional depth and sensitive exploration of trauma, memory, translation, and identity.

Only two debut novels made this year’s list. The shortlist of six finalists will be announced on September 23, with the winner revealed on November 10 in London.