Yes, I know a lot has already been said about Seascraper, the little book that made the Booker longlist and was a favourite to win, only to miss being picked for the shortlist. And it’s such a lovely read. Such an original story.
In case you missed it, it’s about Thomas Flett, who works on the West Coast of England at a place called Longferry, (which might be Southport), where he makes a small living collecting shrimp. It’s arduous work involving old technology and a horse. It’s the work he took over from his grandfather, now dead so it’s just him and his mother in the same cottage she grew up in with few mod cons. But outside it’s the 1960s – people are beginning to forget about the war, maybe thanks to the new music, and the movies.
An American movie producer Edgar Acheson turns up wanting an atmospheric coastal location for his upcoming film and charms his way into the family. Tom reluctantly agrees to take him out that evening at low tide and what follows makes Tom rethink his life. There’s some brilliant storytelling on display, original characters who come to the page with depth for such a short book. You really feel for them too, particularly Tom and his shyness around Joan who works at the post office and makes Tom feel scruffy and unkempt – which he is. Even the horse has character.
Benjamin Wood does everything brilliantly here, but he’s always been in the back of my mind as a writer to look out for ever since I read his debut, The Bellwether Revivals – well worth a read if you come across it. My reading of Seascraper was particularly enhanced by listening to the audiobook which is read by the author himself. He has a pleasant voice, well suited to bringing Tom to life, and does the contrasting Atcheson well too. He also does the musical performance too – yes, there’s music – and it really was amazing, well worth the switch to audio.
So if you’re looking for a nice audiobook, even if you’ve already read Seascraper in print form, check this one out. I can see what all the fuss was about – a five-star read from me.
Judith McKinnon 