Vacant possession

About the Category

Hilary Mantel published Vacant possession in 1986, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of literary fiction from International. The book's treatment of the human condition accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed Vacant possession among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. What distinguishes Vacant possession is how it handles its central concerns — the human condition — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it. Vacant possession reflects Hilary Mantel's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with International's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.

About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.