Willowman

Willowman by Inga Simpson is a masterfully crafted novel that intricately weaves together the lives of two protagonists, Allan Reader and Todd Harrow, against the vibrant backdrop of Australian cricket. Allan Reader, a dedicated and traditional batmaker, struggles to keep his family business alive in a small Melbourne workshop. His passion for creating the perfect cricket bat finds new purpose when he encounters Todd Harrow, a young and exceptionally talented batter.

Captivated by Harrow's prowess and potential, Allan decides to craft a custom Reader bat, selecting the finest piece of willow he has harvested in years. This bat becomes a symbol of hope and rebirth, both for Allan's struggling craft and Harrow's burgeoning cricket career. As Todd rises meteorically through the ranks of the cricket world, the Reader bat garners attention and acclaim, while Allan experiences a personal renaissance, rediscovering the joy and artistry in his work.

However, the journey is fraught with challenges. When Harrow faces serious injuries and personal tribulations, both his career and Allan's newfound inspiration are put at risk. The novel explores themes of passion, resilience, and the intricate bond between a craftsman and his creation, questioning whether Allan's resurgence can endure amid Harrow's struggles.

'Willowman may well be the perfect Australian novel' – Readings

'Beguiling and entertaining' – PETER LALOR, Weekend Australian

'A sweet strike that goes beyond the boundary' – The Age

'Joyous storytelling at its best. I was enthralled' – SARAH WINMAN, author of Still Life

'I bloody loved this – a gorgeous, heartbreaking examination of so much more than cricket' – ROBBIE ARNOTT, author of Limberlost

'A six all the way: Willowman is a novel off the middle of the bat' – Sydney Morning Herald

'These charismatic characters rise memorable from the page, stroke by inspired stroke, ball by crafty ball, living vividly through cricket history' – Courier Mail

'A book for the summer, one to throw in the kitbag to read during rain delays, or between overs in the stands, to read even if you're not a fan of the game' – Canberra Times

'Not since Jasper Jones have I been so utterly spellbound by the next ball, the state of the pitch and the intricacies of scoring' – KATE MILDENHALL

'A love story to cricket, to families, to craft and to music. Beautifully written' – MICHAEL BRISSENDEN

'Inga Simpson brings all her craft and sensitivity to a story that has never been told, and now that she has done it, it feels like this was a story that was needing to be told' – MALCOLM KNOX