{"product_id":"gentlemen-of-the-west-agnes-owens-9781846977602","title":"Gentlemen of the West","description":"Gentlemen of the West, Agnes Owens’ debut novel, was first published in 1984 to wide critical acclaim.   The novel follows the humorous exploits of Mac, a young bricklayer, who, along with a colourful cast of characters, seeks solace and escape in the convivial atmosphere of the Paxton Arms and the levelling influence of alcohol. Each chapter feels like a self-contained episode, but this engaging novel is a cleverly constructed, coherent narrative that is a darkly humorous portrayal of working-class life. With sharp and inventive language, the novel skilfully balances drama and comedy, making you root for the underdog. 'A moving picture of a hard, surprising world which is forcing a young man to understand it and himself' – Alasdair Gray'Accomplished and resonant and . . . always informed with a comic astringency' – The Scotsman'Simultaneously funny and unflinching . . . an economy of language worthy of Ernest Hemingway or Muriel Spark' – Dani GaravelliPublished to celebrate Agnes Owens' centenary year in 2026.","brand":"Birlinn General","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51770905821472,"sku":"9781846977602","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0753\/2812\/7264\/files\/9781846977602_2458202.jpg?v=1780381527","url":"https:\/\/bookcorner.com\/products\/gentlemen-of-the-west-agnes-owens-9781846977602","provider":"The Book Corner","version":"1.0","type":"link"}