The Outrun is another stunning memoir, against a background of beautiful nature writing. Amy Liptrot grew up on Orkney, a carefree childhood on a sheep farm, but clouded by her father's mental illness. She then left for a hedonistic life in London, where her drinking gradually took over her life. Realising that her life had to change, she returned to the island to recover.
She immerses herself in the natural world, swimming and observing birdlife, and confronting her illness. It sounds bleak, but it isn't; the writing is always hopeful and optimistic, she describes how the elements of earth, wind and sea can be healing and restoring. The Outrun is an extraordinarily good book, powerful, honest and true, quite brilliant.