Pigeon

A tale of childhood, friendship, and the stories we tell

Alys Conran author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Parthian Books

Published:6th Jun '16

Should be back in stock very soon

Pigeon cover

This book explores the complexities of childhood memories and friendship through the imaginative storytelling of Iola and Pijin, leading to unexpected truths.

In Pigeon, the narrative unfolds as a poignant exploration of childhood memories that linger in an uneasy haze. The story centers around two friends, Iola and Pijin, who engage in a unique form of storytelling to navigate their youthful imaginations. They weave tales filled with adventure and danger, often revolving around the enigmatic figure of Gwyn, the ice-cream man who visits their town weekly. While Pijin senses the threat that Gwyn represents, Iola remains more naive, leading to a complex dynamic between the two friends as they confront their fears and fantasies.

As Iola and Pijin transition from childhood to adolescence, their friendship becomes increasingly intricate, reflecting the challenges and changes that come with growing up. Some of the stories they create together begin to fade away, while others take on a life of their own, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. The power of language and the impact of storytelling are central themes in Pigeon, highlighting how narratives shape our understanding of the world and ourselves.

Ultimately, Pigeon is not just a tale of friendship but also a meditation on the bittersweet nature of memory and the stories we tell. It invites readers to reflect on their own childhood experiences and the stories that have shaped their lives, making it a resonant and thought-provoking read.

'A coming of age novel that turns into something of a murder mystery, Pigeon is written in a deceptively simple, thoroughly engaging style.' Bill Rees, Wales Arts Review; 'An exquisite novel by a great new talent.' M.J. Hyland; '...might have been authored by Faulkner... pitch-perfect.' Omar Sabbagh, New Welsh Review'

  • Winner of Wales Book of the Year 2017
  • Short-listed for Dylan Thomas Prize 2017

ISBN: 9781910901236

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

268 pages