This House of Grief

In "This House of Grief," Helen Garner explores the aftermath of a tragic car accident that killed three young sons. The book is a true-crime classic and a literary masterpiece that examines what we are capable of and how fiercely we hide it from ourselves. It was named one of the Guardian's 100 Best Books of the 21st Century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2024
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

One of the Guardian's 100 Best Books of the 21st Century, "This House of Grief" is a powerful and restrained exploration of loss and grief. Comparable to In Cold Blood, the novel captivates readers with its meticulous control and emotional depth. Author Kate Atkinson weaves a narrative that grabs hold of the reader from the very first page, evoking a sense of urgency and suspense akin to the podcast series Serial. Gillian Anderson describes it as "utterly gripping," while Mark Haddon praises its ability to keep readers hooked until the very end.

Set on Father's Day in 2005, the story revolves around a discarded husband who drives his three young sons back to their mother, his ex-wife. Barely five minutes from their home, the car swerves off the highway and plunges into a dam. The father manages to escape and swims to the bank, but the car sinks to the bottom, tragically drowning all the children.

The court case that followed became Helen Garner's obsession, consuming her life until its final verdict. The resulting book, a true-crime classic and literary masterpiece, delves into the depths of human capacity for both darkness and resilience. It examines the ways in which we conceal our true selves from ourselves, and the profound impact that grief can have on individuals and society.

"This House of Grief" is a W&N Essential, featuring an introduction by Rachel Cooke. It is a testament to Helen Garner's exceptional writing talent and her ability to shed light on the darker aspects of human nature. The novel is a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the complexities of the human experience and the enduring power of storytelling.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 196 x 126 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399606806