Austin-based author Lucas Schaefer’s debut novel, ‘The Slip’, has been announced as the winner of the 2025 Kirkus Prize for fiction. The book takes readers on a gripping journey set in the summer of 1998, focusing on a 16-year-old boy who disappears from a boxing gym in Austin. The narrative unfolds more than a decade later when his Uncle Bob receives a perplexing tip that reignites the search for answers.
The novel introduces a diverse cast of characters, including a teen grappling with body image issues, a determined rookie cop, and a young boxer who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border at a young age. Schaefer engaged with Texas Standard for an interview to delve into the inspiration behind ‘The Slip’ and the process of capturing the essence of Austin during the 90s.
Schaefer moved to Austin in 2006 and discovered a boxing gym that became the catalyst for his story. He describes the gym as a melting pot of individuals from various backgrounds, where age, race, and profession intersect, providing fertile ground for creative exploration.
Reflecting on the rapid changes Austin has undergone in the last 25 years, Schaefer expressed the challenge of bringing the 1990s version of the city to life. He conducted research to ensure authenticity. Notably, the era was marked by limited internet and mobile phone use, allowing for unique storytelling opportunities.
In exploring the theme of mystery—central to ‘The Slip’—Schaefer found enjoyment in incorporating elements that reflect the era’s context. He compared the evolving city of Austin to a character in a narrative.
Boxing serves as a pivotal focus for the story, with Schaefer intrigued by its meritocratic nature. He highlighted that boxing allows for greater accessibility compared to other sports, fitting well with the book’s exploration of different social worlds coming together.
One of the book’s compelling characters, Charles Rex, known as ‘X’, delves into complex themes of gender identity. Schaefer noted that X navigates his feelings without the contemporary language surrounding gender discussions. Living in 1998 means X lacks the societal context for understanding his struggles, adding depth to his journey.
As a debut novelist, Schaefer faced the common tendency for readers to look for the author within the text. While he shares similarities with Nathaniel— the missing young man—he finds a more profound connection with David, the Haitian-American mentor character. David grapples with life choices and aspirations, which Schaefer came to empathize with throughout his 12-year writing process.
The journey of creating ‘The Slip’ allowed Schaefer to reflect on his own dreams and fears, particularly in relation to the persistence needed in the writing industry. The evolution of David from an intellectual understanding to an emotionally resonant character illustrates Schaefer’s growth as a writer over the years.
With the recognition of the 2025 Kirkus Prize, the future looks promising for Lucas Schaefer and his novel, which intricately weaves themes of identity, belonging, and the quest for closure. ‘The Slip’ not only serves as a gripping mystery but also as a poignant exploration of the human experience, underscoring the richness of shared spaces and stories.
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