Grief Is the Thing with Feathers

Winner of the 2016 International Dylan Thomas Prize and shortlisted for the Guardian First Book Award and the Goldsmiths Prize.

"Grief Is the Thing with Feathers" follows the poignant journey of two young boys grappling with the profound loss of their mother. Set in a London flat, the narrative captures their overwhelming sadness and the struggle of their father, a Ted Hughes scholar, who finds himself lost in a haze of grief. He envisions a future filled with well-meaning but ultimately empty visitors, highlighting the isolation that often accompanies loss.

Amidst this despair, the arrival of Crow—a complex figure who embodies both trickster and caregiver—brings a unique twist to their sorrowful existence. Crow, with his mischievous yet healing nature, becomes an unexpected presence in their lives, offering both comfort and a challenge. His role as a babysitter and healer complicates the boys' understanding of grief, as he threatens to linger until they find a way to cope with their pain.

The novel is a blend of poetic prose and emotional depth, exploring themes of loss, healing, and the complexities of familial bonds. It has garnered critical acclaim, winning the International Dylan Thomas Prize and being shortlisted for several prestigious awards, including the Guardian First Book Award. Through its captivating narrative, "Grief Is the Thing with Feathers" invites readers to reflect on the nature of grief and the unconventional ways it can manifest.