When it first appeared a couple of months ago, the list of contenders boasted some notables, other exclusions, and more than a few surprises.

To be awarded every two years, the prize -- worth Canadian $150,000 -- is open to living authors of all nationalities whose work has been either written or translated widely into English.

The one thing these authors from a dozen countries have in common is the potential to shake your world a little.

Here's a quick guide to their work.

Text: Lindsay Pereira

Also See: Writer's Block