The Valley at the Centre of the World, by Malachi Tallack (Canongate 2018)

Neil's picture

This is a debut novel from a powerful new voice. Malachi Tallack is the author of two non-fiction titles, both a fusion of nature writing, history and memoir. This novel explores similar territory. Set in Shetland, it tells a story of crofting in a remote valley, the families that make their living there, their struggles and relationships. It is an intense, powerfully moving novel, in which the island and its climate are an intrinsic character. I loved it.