Glasgow boys

Margaret McDonald

£8.99

In stock

This coming-of-age story is an incisive look at young masculinity and the way even the most fraught childhood is not without hope. Neither Finlay or Banjo can remember the last time they had a hug. Against all odds, 18-year-old Finlay has begun his nursing degree at Glasgow University. But coming straight from the care system means he has no support network. How can he write essays, focus on his nursing placement and stop himself from falling in love when he’s struggling to even feed himself? Meanwhile, 17-year-old Banjo is trying to settle into his new foster family and finish high school, desperate to hold down his job and the people it contains. But his anger and fear keep boiling over, threatening his already uncertain future. Underpinning everything is what happened three years ago in their group care home, when Finlay and Banjo were as close as brothers until they stopped speaking.

ISBN: 9780571382972 Category:

Description

*SHORTLISTED WATERSTONES CHILDREN’S BOOK PRIZE 2025*
*LONGLISTED CARNEGIE MEDAL 2025*
*LONGLISTED BRANFORD BOASE AWARD 2025*
*LONGLISTED UKLA AWARD 2025*
*A 2025 READ FOR EMPATHY BOOK*

Tenderness itself, a song to love and friendship.’ Andrew O’Hagan
‘Stunning. Hopeful, heartbreaking and ultimately joyful.’ Simon James Green
‘As if you are reading your own heart written upon the page.’ Non Pratt

Two boys can’t remember the last time they had a hug.

Meet Finlay. He’s studying for his nursing degree at Glasgow University, against all the odds. But coming straight from care means he has no support network.
How can he write essays, find paid work and NOT fall for the beautiful boy at uni, when he’s struggling to even feed himself?

Meet Banjo. He’s trying to settle in with his new foster family and finish high school. But he can’t forget all that has happened, and his anger and fear keep boiling over.
How can he hold on to the one good person in his life, when his outbursts keep threatening his already uncertain future?

Can Finlay and Banjo let go of the past before it drags them under?

Reader Reviews:
‘Outstanding! This book I couldn’t put down took on holiday omg wasn’t what I expected but what a read. Must recommend totally.’ ????&#11088

‘I am obsessed, obsessed, obsessed with Glasgow Boys.’ ????&#11088

‘A stunning debut novel that is so tender, so beautifully crafted with such a strong story that I’m still thinking about it a week later! An absolute must read, it’ll be the best hours you spend in another wee world.’ ????&#11088

‘Emotional and heart wrenching.’ ????&#11088

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