Shuggie Bain

Who it's for

Shuggie grows up in 1980s Glasgow trying to keep his beautiful, proud mother Agnes alive as alcoholism consumes her.

Feelings it meets

• Addiction
• Grief
• Family Roles

What it is

Douglas Stuart's 2020 novel, winner of the 2020 Booker Prize, is set in Glasgow between 1981 and 1992. It follows Hugh 'Shuggie' Bain through a difficult childhood as his father leaves the family and his mother Agnes's drinking worsens.

Where to find it

In print; widely available from libraries (Libby/Hoopla) and as an audiobook. Still in copyright, so not on Project Gutenberg.

Before you start

Heads up: Suicide attempts and child sexual abuse.

Age: Adult (18+)