Which author won the 2025 National Book Award for Fiction for 'The True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother)'?

Rabih Alameddine's novel, 'The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother)', earned him the prestigious 2025 National Book Award for Fiction. This esteemed literary prize is presented annually by the National Book Foundation (Review), recognizing outstanding literary merit in American writing. The announcement of Alameddine's win, along with other category victors, took place at a ceremony in New York on November 19, 2025.

Alameddine's award-winning work introduces readers to Raja, a sixty-three-year-old gay philosophy teacher residing in a small Beirut apartment with his octogenarian mother, Zalfa. The narrative unfolds over six decades, offering a poignant and often humorous exploration of their profound bond amidst the backdrop of Lebanon's turbulent history, including the civil war, economic crises, and the 2020 Beirut port explosion. Critics have praised the novel for its sharp examination of resilience in challenging times and its unique blend of personal coming-of-age with national upheaval.

The novel is characterized by its non-linear storytelling, told through a series of nested stories as Raja reflects on his past, his relationship with his mother, and his homeland (Review). It delves into themes of identity, memory, and the enduring nature of love, even amidst external chaos and personal struggles. Alameddine, an acclaimed author known for his distinctive voice, drew inspiration for the book in part from his own relationship with his aging mother. The National Book Award for Fiction not only celebrates the book's literary artistry but also brings wider recognition to Alameddine's powerful and engaging narrative.