Limberlost

Limberlost is a story about a young boy named Ned West who dreams of sailing across the river on a boat of his own. He roams the land in search of rabbits to shoot and sells their pelts to fund his ambitions, but real life gets in the way. When a storm decimates the Limberlost crop, Ned must decide what to protect: his childhood dreams or the people and the land that surround him.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Atlantic Books

SHORTLISTED FOR THE DYLAN THOMAS PRIZE 2023


Arnott possesses a remarkable ability to bring description to life, transforming ordinary moments into truly extraordinary experiences. His storytelling prowess shines through in his portrayal of a young boy's journey toward self-discovery. This captivating whole-life story unfolds with a luminous clarity, capturing the essence of a boy's quest to become his own man.


In the enchanting world of Ned West, a young boy dreams of sailing across the river on a boat of his own. For Ned, a boat symbolizes freedom—the vast open water, teeming with squids and vibrant reefs, the opportunity to enjoy private beaches, a stark contrast to his life on Limberlost, the family farm. His father, consumed by worry and grief for Ned's older brothers, who are away fighting in a distant and ruthless war, finds solace in nurturing the land. Ned, too young to enlist, roams the land in search of rabbits to shoot, selling their pelts to fund his secret ambition of building a boat.


However, as the seasons pass and Ned grows up, the realities of adulthood intervene. He falls in love with Callie, the tough and capable sister of his best friend, and together they embark on a journey of learning the intricacies of love, loss, and hardship. When a devastating storm decimates the Limberlost crop and threatens the future of the orchard, Ned is faced with a pivotal decision. Should he prioritize his childhood dreams or protect the people and the land that have become his home?


Limberlost is a captivating tale that delves into the complexities of masculinity, exploring the boundaries of ownership and understanding. It weaves a rich tapestry of the wonders of growing up, filled with vivid imagery and a folkloric spirit that transports readers to a world both tender and vicious. This unforgettable love letter to the natural world is penned by a writer of rare talent, offering a profound appreciation for the richness and beauty of the world around us.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838956820
Edition number: Main