Little Bits of Baby

‘Love, death, the decay of friendship, the triumph of love – all the big themes are here in small doses, cunningly plotted and skilfully interwoven by Patrick Gale, who writes like Iris Murdoch on pep pills. Savage, satirical, often very funny, this highly readable comedy of middle-class manners is written by a young author of boundless talent. One to watch.’ Daily Mail

‘Gale describes strong emotions with conviction. He shows the diversity of passionate behaviour, sometimes hilarious, sometimes threatening, but always skilfully contained within a comedy of contemporary manners.’ The Times

‘A richly comic novel about the equilibrium of urban lives and loves upset by an outsider. Affectionate and perceptive.’ Mail on Sunday

‘His discreet exploration of love between the generations and the sexes is by turn poignant and humourous.’ Vogue

‘Sharp insights into a thoroughly modern marriage.’ Sunday Times

‘This is a witty book with more than a touch of satire, but which deals with love, pain, death and laughter with an extraordinary depth of understanding.’ She

‘A wonderful, modern comedy of manners.’ Company

An acutely observed story of a young man’s journey of self-discovery and how the path of life can take one on many diverse routes.

No one knew why Robin abandoned a brilliant university career to start a new life at an eccentric island monastery, but it was thought to have something to do with the surprise engagement of Candida, Robin’s childhood playmate, and Jake, their mutual friend.

Eight years later, Robin’s return to the less spiritual world of London in the late eighties has far-reaching effects. Much has changed: his father has left the City to run a progressive kindergarten in Clapham; Candida is now a household name as a presenter on breakfast television; and Jake is a successful advertising executive. When Robin falls in love at the christening of Candida’s baby, he has little idea how extraordinary the consequences will be.