Take Nothing With You

A new novel by Patrick Gale explores the confusions of desire and reality through the story of Eustace, a ten-year-old oddball who is transformed by his mother's decision to sign him up for cello lessons. The book is a compassionate, compelling exploration of boyhood, coming of age, and the complexities of adult love lives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: Headline Publishing Group

From the acclaimed author of "A Place Called Winter," comes a poignant and captivating new novel that delves into the realms of boyhood, coming of age, and the complexities of desire and reality. Prepare to be swept away by a tale that is both delicious and dear, heart-wrenching and incredibly funny.

"It's delicious, it's dear, it's heart-breaking, and very funny," raves Rachel Joyce about this remarkable story. Every sentence is beautifully crafted, creating a tapestry of emotions that will leave you spellbound.

Joanna Cannon praises the author for her incredible storytelling, stating that "nothing is wasted." Every word resonates with meaning and purpose, drawing you deeper into the lives of the characters.

Set in the 1970s in Weston-Super-Mare, the novel follows the journey of ten-year-old Eustace, an oddball child who is transformed by his mother's quixotic decision to enroll him in cello lessons. Music becomes his escape, a way to release the emotional volcano within him. Eustace is captivated by his young teacher, who introduces him to the world of glamour and captivates his frustrated and controlling mother.

As Eustace embarks on holiday courses in the Scottish borders, he is introduced to lessons in love, rejection, and humility, alongside his daily cello practice. Drawing on his own boyhood experiences, Patrick Gale weaves a rich tapestry of emotions that explores the collision between childish hero worship and the messy adult love lives that surround him.

This novel is a testament to the power of storytelling, as it transports you to a different time and place while exploring the universal themes of love, growth, and self-discovery. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted tale that will leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472205353