The Outrun

The Outrun by Amy Liptrot is a deeply moving memoir that beautifully narrates the journey of a woman seeking redemption and recovery amidst the rugged, untamed landscapes of the Orkney Islands. After a harrowing decade-long struggle with alcohol addiction, thirty-year-old Amy returns to her childhood home in Orkney, seeking solace and healing. In this hauntingly honest account, she immerses herself in the island's wild beauty, discovering the profound connections between nature and personal renewal.

THE SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER

WINNER OF THE 2017 PEN ACKERLEY PRIZE

WINNER OF THE 2016 WAINWRIGHT PRIZE

SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2017 ONDAATJE PRIZE

SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2016 WELLCOME PRIZE

As Amy navigates through the powerful natural elements of Orkney, she engages in a series of therapeutic routines. She braves the icy waters for morning swims, attentively observes the unique wildlife of the island, and spends her nights captivated by the celestial display of the Merry Dancers. Each of these moments of profound connection to her environment acts as a stepping stone in her recovery, offering glimpses of hope and renewal.

The memoir is not only a testament to Amy's resilience but also an evocative exploration of how the natural world can aid in healing the deepest wounds. Her lyrical prose and candid storytelling invite readers to reflect on their own lives and the potential for change and recovery within us all.

The Outrun is a potent mix of keenly observed natural history, personal memoir, and unflinching reflection. Amy's journey will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or in need of reconnection with the world around them. This critically acclaimed work is a must-read for fans of nature writing and personal transformation stories.