The Birdcatcher

FINALIST FOR THE 2022 NATIONAL BOOK AWARD

The Birdcatcher is the new novel from a major voice in American literature, which explores artists in exile, dangerous relationships and the demands of creativity.

A literary giant, and one of my absolute favourite writers - Tayari Jones, author of An American Marriage

I am living on the white-washed island of Ibiza with my friend Catherine Shuger, a sculptor who has been declared legally insane, and her husband, Ernest. Standing on the terrace, sheltered in the smell of oranges and eucalyptus, washed in sunlight, youd swear this was a paradise. But to tell the truth the place is full of dangers. You see, Catherine sometimes tries to kill her husband. It has been this way for years . . .

My names Amanda Wordlaw. Wonderful name for a writer, isnt it? . . . I guess Im sort of a choice companion for the Shugers - professional watcher and listener that I am. Its like they need someone else to witness the shit, the spectacle they make of themselves.

A fascinating meditation on Black female creativity from the author of Corregidora and Palmares . . . Vivid characters shimmer through the pages Suzi Feay, GUARDIAN