The Swimmers

The local pool is a haven of unexpected kinship and private solace for Alice. One day, a crack appears deep beneath the surface of the water, and Alice is plunged into dislocation and chaos. This novel is about memory and loss, mothers and daughters, and the stories that make up a life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Winner of the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction Exquisite The New York Times A tale of grief and memory awash with dark humour and wit Spectator
Winner of the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction, this exquisite novel is a captivating tale of grief and memory, interwoven with dark humor and wit. Set in a local pool, it explores the unexpected kinship and private solace it offers to the daily swimmers. For Alice, her daily laps become a ritual that gives her life meaning, even though she struggles with memory loss and dislocation.

When the pool closes for repairs, Alice is plunged into a world of difficult memories and a fractured relationship with her daughter. The novel delves into the complexities of motherhood, daughters, and the stories that shape a life. With its rich prose and unforgettable characters, it is a literary gem that will leave readers in awe.

The New York Times praised the novel for its "exquisite" writing, describing it as a "tale of grief and memory awash with dark humor and wit." The Spectator also praised the book, calling it "a spellbinding talent" and an "unforgettable novel about mothers and daughters." Nicci Gerrard, a renowned author, praised the novel for its ability to hold so much grief and loss while remaining "graceful and beautiful."

Overall, this novel is a must-read for anyone who appreciates well-crafted storytelling and explores the depths of human emotions. Its powerful themes and unforgettable characters will leave a lasting impression on readers.

Weight: 140g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241994283