This Bright Life

SHORTLISTED FOR THE SALTIRE AWARD 2025

'Life-affirming' JANICE HALLETT
'Full of compassion and hope' ELISSA SOAVE
'A masterpiece' CAROLE HAILEY

Gerard is twelve. He hates his name, but loves flying round the streets of Glasgow on his bike, or mucking about with his gang, the Broncos. He's a bright kid, but trouble seems to follow him. No one really knows what it's like at home for Gerard; he's used to carrying a lot on his small shoulders.

Gerard doesn't always make good decisions. And on one April morning, in the blink of an eye, he makes a very bad one - one that will upend his whole world.

Now, he faces a bewildering stream of concerned adults clutching files, unfamiliar streets to navigate, a strange bed to sleep in, and the very real chance he won't see his wee brother and sister again.

Heartbreaking and yet brimful of humour, compassion and hope, This Bright Life is a story about messy lives, second chances and the many hands it takes to build a boy.