British Jewish writer Deborah Levy could scoop up the Man Booker prize this year after her name appeared on the shortlist for the prestigious prize.

She is joined on the six-strong list of finalists by satirical novelist Will Self

Levy's novel, Swimming Home, is a tale of depression and ageing set against the backdrop of a family holiday to rural France. The author of a dozen books, it is the first time she has been nominated for the most important prize in British literature.

The favourite to win is Hilary Mantel, whose historical sequel Bring Up the Bodies has also been shortlisted three years after she won for Wolf Hall.

Umbrella by Will Self, is also in contention for the top spot.

The winner of the £50,000 prize will be announced at a ceremony on October 16. For winners, the prize is not only an honour but also tends to bring with it a significant financial boost; sales of novels including Howard Jacobson's The Finkler Question have jumped considerably after the Man Booker win.