Author(s): Carol Birch

Hardback fiction

Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, 2011.

This historical adventure from the author of Scapegallowswas longlisted for the Man Booker Prize, 2011.

1857. Jaffy Brown is running along a street in London's East End when he comes face to face with an escaped circus animal. He is plucked from the jaws of death by Mr Jamrach-explorer, entrepreneur and collector of the world's strangest creatures-and the two strike up a friendship.

Before he knows it, Jaffy finds himself on board a ship bound for the Dutch East Indies, on an unusual commission for Mr Jamrach.

His journey-if he survives it-will push faith, love and friendship to their utmost limits.

'One of the best stories I've ever read.' A. S. Byatt