Glasgow Boys

A striking debut exploring the power of identity, community and the Scottish working class. This coming-of-age story is an incisive look at young masculinity and the way even the most fraught upbringing is not without hope.

*WINNER CARNEGIE MEDAL 2025*
*WINNER UKLA AWARD 2025*

*WINNER UKLA SHADOWERS CHOICE AWARD 2025*
*WINNER BRANFORD BOASE AWARD 2025*
*SHORTLISTED WATERSTONES CHILDRENS BOOK PRIZE 2025*
*A 2025 READ FOR EMPATHY BOOK*

Tenderness itself, a song to love and friendship. Andrew OHagan
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 cant remember the last time they had a hug.

Meet Finlay. Hes 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 hes struggling to even feed himself?

Meet Banjo. Hes trying to settle in with his new foster family and finish high school. But he cant 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 couldnt put down took on holiday omg wasnt what I expected but what a read. Must recommend totally.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I am obsessed, obsessed, obsessed with Glasgow Boys.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A stunning debut novel that is so tender, so beautifully crafted with such a strong story that Im still thinking about it a week later! An absolute must read, itll be the best hours you spend in another wee world.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Emotional and heart wrenching.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐