Each year I try to read all six finalists and usually end up picking the one that comes second. A few years ago my choice came sixth - TREES by Percival Everett. A superb writer - this year he is the only male writer of the six finalists with JAMES which I bought weeks ago as I really like his writing skills. But I keep many books for my winter read so, although I normally try to read all six before the October announcement, this year I shall wait.