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Kluci z Glasgow
Strhující debut zkoumající sílu identity a komunity
Navzdory nešťastnému dětství a těžkým podmínkám začal osmnáctiletý Finlay právě studovat ošetřovatelství na Glasgowské univerzitě. V dětství si prošel ústavní péčí a pěstounstvím, což znamená, že se teď na prahu dospělosti nemá o koho opřít. Jako by svět nebyl sám o sobě děsivý. Jak má psát eseje, soustředit se na ošetřovatelskou praxi a žít normálním studentským životem, když se sotva dokáže uživit?
Sedmnáctiletý Banjo se mezitím pokouší usadit v nové pěstounské rodině, dokončit střední školu a udržet si práci. Hněv a strach se v něm však perou a ohrožují jeho už tak nejistou budoucnost. Neví, co s ním bude, ale tuší, že nic hezkého ho nečeká.
Ještě před třemi lety si Finlay a Banjo byli blízcí jako bratři. Jenže se mezi nimi něco stalo a jejich cesty se rozešly. Společná minulost je oba pronásleduje a brání jim posunout se dál. Pokud si chtějí udržet své blízké, musejí si vzájemně odpustit. A taky najít způsob, jak odpustit sami sobě.
Navzdory nešťastnému dětství a těžkým podmínkám začal osmnáctiletý Finlay právě studovat ošetřovatelství na Glasgowské univerzitě. V dětství si prošel ústavní péčí a pěstounstvím, což znamená, že se teď na prahu dospělosti nemá o koho opřít. Jako by svět nebyl sám o sobě děsivý. Jak má psát eseje, soustředit se na ošetřovatelskou praxi a žít normálním studentským životem, když se sotva dokáže uživit?
Sedmnáctiletý Banjo se mezitím pokouší usadit v nové pěstounské rodině, dokončit střední školu a udržet si práci. Hněv a strach se v něm však perou a ohrožují jeho už tak nejistou budoucnost. Neví, co s ním bude, ale tuší, že nic hezkého ho nečeká.
Ještě před třemi lety si Finlay a Banjo byli blízcí jako bratři. Jenže se mezi nimi něco stalo a jejich cesty se rozešly. Společná minulost je oba pronásleduje a brání jim posunout se dál. Pokud si chtějí udržet své blízké, musejí si vzájemně odpustit. A taky najít způsob, jak odpustit sami sobě.
384 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2025
209 people are currently reading
5253 people want to read
About the author
Margaret McDonald
1 book143 followersMargaret McDonald is a Scottish author from Glasgow. She has been published in various poetry and prose magazines, including The Manifest Station, In Parentheses, Breath and Shadow, and Bandit Fiction. She is a first-generation university student and holds an MLitt in English Literature with distinction (Glasgow University) and a first class B.A Honours in Creative Writing with English Literature (Strathclyde University). She writes about the working class experience, the student experience, and the Scottish healthcare system as a former NHS employee and disabled author. Glasgow Boys is her debut.
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March 20, 2024
My family is who I allow it to be.
Glasgow Boys. The title and blurb immediately reminded me of gritty stories set in Glasgow like Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo, or even Boys Don’t Cry, set in Dublin (please pick up this one if you haven’t yet), but while reading I found beauty and hopefulness instead of darkness.
I have to admit, I had to get used to the writing. Third person, present tense is never my favorite, and combined with the short, blunt sentences and chapters, it felt distant to me. But the writing grew on me.
Meet Finlay, the bony, blonde, socially awkward, closeted student. Meet Banjo, the short, ginger, hot-headed, athletic boy. Both craving for love.
Two boys so different, but once close as brothers when they lived in the same group care home. Until they had a fall out. Neither of them having had a hug for ages. Both surviving on their own. Neither of them needing anyone else.
Sometimes, my mom’s heart hurt tremendously, and I all wanted to do is hug those two boys. I had lumps in my throat when they thought about the one at the other side of the bathroom door, or when they touched the wooden dresser and knew another person was touching it too. I had tears in my eyes when Banjo got beaten up or Finlay felt so alone. I bawled my eyes out when Banjo gave Mr Black to Finlay. And when I read what had happened between them I sobbed. Uncontrollably. But …
I didn’t only have tears from anger of sadness. I blinked wildly when Finlay talked about his sexuality and when Alena’s mom called Banjo a sweetheart. And for most of the book, a smile danced on my face. Because of Finlay’s immediate crush on Akash, because of Banjo’s joy in working in a greasy kitchen, because of the people who accepted them for who they were, and because of the bond those two boys so visibly had in the past.
Be aware this is not a romance. Yeah, there are love interests, but falling in love is not the main theme. Glasgow Boys is about love though. It’s about finding your place in the world, finding your people, and, most of all, finding yourself and loving yourself for who you are.
The writing and the story are quite unique and it’s difficult to compare this beautiful story to any other YA book. But if I had to, I’d choose When You Call my Name. A completely different story but somehow those two books both brought up the same feelings in me.
The last page of Glasgow Boys gave me goosebumps. Of happiness. And a part of me now longs for a sequel to follow those two boys into adulthood and see their dreams come true.
Thank you so much, Faber & Faber and NetGalley for this wonderful ARC! So happy I found it on NetGalley!
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Glasgow Boys. The title and blurb immediately reminded me of gritty stories set in Glasgow like Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo, or even Boys Don’t Cry, set in Dublin (please pick up this one if you haven’t yet), but while reading I found beauty and hopefulness instead of darkness.
I have to admit, I had to get used to the writing. Third person, present tense is never my favorite, and combined with the short, blunt sentences and chapters, it felt distant to me. But the writing grew on me.
Meet Finlay, the bony, blonde, socially awkward, closeted student. Meet Banjo, the short, ginger, hot-headed, athletic boy. Both craving for love.
Two boys so different, but once close as brothers when they lived in the same group care home. Until they had a fall out. Neither of them having had a hug for ages. Both surviving on their own. Neither of them needing anyone else.
Sometimes, my mom’s heart hurt tremendously, and I all wanted to do is hug those two boys. I had lumps in my throat when they thought about the one at the other side of the bathroom door, or when they touched the wooden dresser and knew another person was touching it too. I had tears in my eyes when Banjo got beaten up or Finlay felt so alone. I bawled my eyes out when Banjo gave Mr Black to Finlay. And when I read what had happened between them I sobbed. Uncontrollably. But …
I didn’t only have tears from anger of sadness. I blinked wildly when Finlay talked about his sexuality and when Alena’s mom called Banjo a sweetheart. And for most of the book, a smile danced on my face. Because of Finlay’s immediate crush on Akash, because of Banjo’s joy in working in a greasy kitchen, because of the people who accepted them for who they were, and because of the bond those two boys so visibly had in the past.
Be aware this is not a romance. Yeah, there are love interests, but falling in love is not the main theme. Glasgow Boys is about love though. It’s about finding your place in the world, finding your people, and, most of all, finding yourself and loving yourself for who you are.
The writing and the story are quite unique and it’s difficult to compare this beautiful story to any other YA book. But if I had to, I’d choose When You Call my Name. A completely different story but somehow those two books both brought up the same feelings in me.
The last page of Glasgow Boys gave me goosebumps. Of happiness. And a part of me now longs for a sequel to follow those two boys into adulthood and see their dreams come true.
Thank you so much, Faber & Faber and NetGalley for this wonderful ARC! So happy I found it on NetGalley!
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January 17, 2025Hi everyone! Please forgive me for not adding the content warnings until now - we managed to squeeze them into the book but it escaped my mind to add them here. These include discussions of trauma and abuse, anxiety attacks and substance use (on-page), as well as attempted suicide (off-page/through another character's POV). I hope this is helpful.
In my ao3 days I would say 'please don't post to goodreads' but now I am saying thanks everyone for these lovely words. Lots of people say don't read reviews but I've found them to be a genuinely lovely but also fascinating part of this process. Imagining what people might say is very different to having the reality, so thank you anyone who took the time to write their thoughts!
In my ao3 days I would say 'please don't post to goodreads' but now I am saying thanks everyone for these lovely words. Lots of people say don't read reviews but I've found them to be a genuinely lovely but also fascinating part of this process. Imagining what people might say is very different to having the reality, so thank you anyone who took the time to write their thoughts!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2024
✰ 4 stars ✰
“It’s such a beautiful thing to hold somebody.”
This is not a love story, but a tender story of love between two Scottish teenage boys - quiet and reserved blonde Finlay and the impulsive, if not explosive sporty redhead Banjo. The love that exists between two kindred souls who shared their lives together during their darkest days & formed a deep trust of compassion and friendship that was able to brighten up their days for even just a little bit. But, when that light is suddenly extinguished, and their friendship is torn apart over a falling out neither of them saw coming, a few years will go by, before their paths will cross again, where they will finally have the chance to find each other again. 💛❤️
Finlay and Banjo were complete opposites of each other in appearance and personality, but the one thing that held them together was their need for just wanting to be loved; the loneliness of trying to find their place in the group care home where they met three years ago - seeking out that single understanding and comforting hand that could acknowledge their presence and their pain - remind them that they see them for who they are. 'Somehow he can always tell the difference between good, so please go and good, but please stay.' ❤️🩹❤️🩹 It is that shared and tentative bond that draws them closer to one another - making them not quite friends, but someone that they trust with their heart and their hurt - the one that makes them feel safe when the rest of the world surrounds them in darkness. But, when that trust feels like a betrayal - a sting so sharp that no words, no hug can ever earn their way back into each other's heart - an explosive fallout that leaves no chance for forgiveness - then it is only time and fate on their side that will eventually lead these two Glasgow Boys back into each other's lives and hearts, as well. 🫂
“... he wanted this tender love. He wanted someone to come along and adore him, and he wanted to adore them in return.”
How to explain how gentle, but deeply moving this story was? Something so good and brave and warm about their story that was so easy to appreciate. How the narrative shifts seamlessly through their dual perspectives in the present-day, while also steadily shedding light on their respective past, where they once could have called each other friends. It was a smooth sailing kind of read - one that had this natural feel to it that made it easy to empathize and sympathize with both of them. 🥺
Eighteen-year-old Finlay's struggles run deeper than just trying to successfully pursue his nursing degree at Glasgow University. It is also the deep-rooted fear of his own sexuality being addressed - one that attempts to escape, when he is in the presence of an old friend he rekindles a friendship with, Akash - handsome and understanding and considerate Akash, who stirs a desire in him so fierce, but is impossible to overcome that prevalent insecure sense that he is unworthy of ever being loved; that deep-rooted sense of abandonment issues that prevent him from ever reaching out more than he has to - ever longing for something deeper than what has been given. 😟 'He’s never been hugged like this. Never so crushingly. It’s been years since he was touched at all. Because how could anyone ask for this?' It is a heart-wrenching struggle, one in which I loved how the author built upon the past traumas in order for him to overcome them. A resilient force that made his growth such a strong one - a testament of his own strength and capacity for allowing the vulnerable side of himself to speak up for itself. 🥺
“Love me, just love me, even if it’s hard and painful and I’m being shite, please just do it, Banjo thinks. He needs Finlay to be the one to do it.”
Seventeen-year-old Banjo's own path was paved with challenges and shortcomings - one where fighting back is his answer, proving his worth, his driving force. It's not easy for him to accept that he can belong anywhere - that his foster parents care enough about him that he should repay their favors with a more winsome attitude - that he can have healthy relationships worth keeping. It is a life of self-doubt that boils into an angry frustration at being mistreated - misunderstood - taken advantage of. 'His love is tinged with bitter shame, but his bitterness is tinged with this rotted type of terrible affection.' 😥 But, a job at a cafe that helps him build up a sense of responsibility, a job that makes him get closer to a young girl, Alena, who has her own fair share of troubles and who reminds Banjo at how he can still appreciate the good he has in life - that really allows him to hold off being so withdrawn all the time. That he doesn't always have to resort to his fists to express himself - that hostility isn't the answer and that there is still room in his heart to let others in. That the fear of rejection does have the chance of finally coming to an end. 🫶🏻
It is a debut that triumphs on the value of human connection - how important it is to know that there is someone in our corner - someone who cares enough to want you in their lives. And for each of them, the author developed a strong close-knit sense of family and friends - ones who were patient and considerate of their own shortcomings - likeable and well-developed characters that gave each of them the chance to breathe - to take the slow and steady steps to accept their kindness and realize that they are capable of being loved. 🥺 'He can’t even explain the love... To restrict it to any one category reduces it entirely. And maybe Banjo won’t understand, but Finlay does. He finally understands it within himself.' That it is okay to accept and receive that love - an optimistic and hopeful feeling that there are those who care for them. The simple joys of humor and laughter that was missing in their lives that they finally got a chance to experience - to live! They may have been broken souls - but they are not defeated; and the people around them reminded them of that every day - with their own personal struggles that helped Finlay and Banjo on the path of healing and self-discovery. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
“He realises they’re two foreigners in this world. Two people who have nothing. They’ve travelled without ever knowing a place, they’re men inside children’s bodies, they’re soldiers who have no awareness of war and yet understand its horrors.
But they’ve found one another across the bloody barracks. Not even a lover could care the way Finlay does.”
And these feelings were portrayed in a heartfelt yet bittersweet way - one that made it so easy to get immersed in - so unflinching raw, but so intense in vividly capturing their friendship - how they gravitate towards one another - something akin to innocence and sincere to it that made it hurt even more when a misunderstanding shattered that trust. 😢 How they still somehow sought each other' presence - guidance - acceptance - how it felt like a part of their hearts was missing '– that supermassive hole in his life.' It is the way that the author tied the past with the present - how the trauma and emotions they felt during that time was something that followed them into the later stage of their lives - that I could see it without being told it, y'know. It made their growth seem that much more real and genuine to me; it is a strange explanation, but it is something that stood out for me. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
The ending was so soft - it was gentle, and so fitting; it evoked such a protective streak in me, one in which I wish that moment could have gone on longer - one that spoke volumes of how much they had grown and learned and loved. 🥹 The eventual build-up was like a crescendo, but a gentle one; one that caressed and soothed the heartache both had been carrying ever since their split - a wound that was starving for forgiveness and just a chance for closure. 'It’s the greatest act of love Finlay’s ever known.' It was really beautifully done; even if it left me wanting to see more of them together, I just felt so - loved. 💛 An embrace that rewarded me with an emotionally satisfying feeling at how they were finally able to be happy and content with life - finally at a stage in their lives, where they were with those who loved them. ✨
“It’s such a beautiful thing to hold somebody.”
This is not a love story, but a tender story of love between two Scottish teenage boys - quiet and reserved blonde Finlay and the impulsive, if not explosive sporty redhead Banjo. The love that exists between two kindred souls who shared their lives together during their darkest days & formed a deep trust of compassion and friendship that was able to brighten up their days for even just a little bit. But, when that light is suddenly extinguished, and their friendship is torn apart over a falling out neither of them saw coming, a few years will go by, before their paths will cross again, where they will finally have the chance to find each other again. 💛❤️
Finlay and Banjo were complete opposites of each other in appearance and personality, but the one thing that held them together was their need for just wanting to be loved; the loneliness of trying to find their place in the group care home where they met three years ago - seeking out that single understanding and comforting hand that could acknowledge their presence and their pain - remind them that they see them for who they are. 'Somehow he can always tell the difference between good, so please go and good, but please stay.' ❤️🩹❤️🩹 It is that shared and tentative bond that draws them closer to one another - making them not quite friends, but someone that they trust with their heart and their hurt - the one that makes them feel safe when the rest of the world surrounds them in darkness. But, when that trust feels like a betrayal - a sting so sharp that no words, no hug can ever earn their way back into each other's heart - an explosive fallout that leaves no chance for forgiveness - then it is only time and fate on their side that will eventually lead these two Glasgow Boys back into each other's lives and hearts, as well. 🫂
“... he wanted this tender love. He wanted someone to come along and adore him, and he wanted to adore them in return.”
How to explain how gentle, but deeply moving this story was? Something so good and brave and warm about their story that was so easy to appreciate. How the narrative shifts seamlessly through their dual perspectives in the present-day, while also steadily shedding light on their respective past, where they once could have called each other friends. It was a smooth sailing kind of read - one that had this natural feel to it that made it easy to empathize and sympathize with both of them. 🥺
Eighteen-year-old Finlay's struggles run deeper than just trying to successfully pursue his nursing degree at Glasgow University. It is also the deep-rooted fear of his own sexuality being addressed - one that attempts to escape, when he is in the presence of an old friend he rekindles a friendship with, Akash - handsome and understanding and considerate Akash, who stirs a desire in him so fierce, but is impossible to overcome that prevalent insecure sense that he is unworthy of ever being loved; that deep-rooted sense of abandonment issues that prevent him from ever reaching out more than he has to - ever longing for something deeper than what has been given. 😟 'He’s never been hugged like this. Never so crushingly. It’s been years since he was touched at all. Because how could anyone ask for this?' It is a heart-wrenching struggle, one in which I loved how the author built upon the past traumas in order for him to overcome them. A resilient force that made his growth such a strong one - a testament of his own strength and capacity for allowing the vulnerable side of himself to speak up for itself. 🥺
“Love me, just love me, even if it’s hard and painful and I’m being shite, please just do it, Banjo thinks. He needs Finlay to be the one to do it.”
Seventeen-year-old Banjo's own path was paved with challenges and shortcomings - one where fighting back is his answer, proving his worth, his driving force. It's not easy for him to accept that he can belong anywhere - that his foster parents care enough about him that he should repay their favors with a more winsome attitude - that he can have healthy relationships worth keeping. It is a life of self-doubt that boils into an angry frustration at being mistreated - misunderstood - taken advantage of. 'His love is tinged with bitter shame, but his bitterness is tinged with this rotted type of terrible affection.' 😥 But, a job at a cafe that helps him build up a sense of responsibility, a job that makes him get closer to a young girl, Alena, who has her own fair share of troubles and who reminds Banjo at how he can still appreciate the good he has in life - that really allows him to hold off being so withdrawn all the time. That he doesn't always have to resort to his fists to express himself - that hostility isn't the answer and that there is still room in his heart to let others in. That the fear of rejection does have the chance of finally coming to an end. 🫶🏻
It is a debut that triumphs on the value of human connection - how important it is to know that there is someone in our corner - someone who cares enough to want you in their lives. And for each of them, the author developed a strong close-knit sense of family and friends - ones who were patient and considerate of their own shortcomings - likeable and well-developed characters that gave each of them the chance to breathe - to take the slow and steady steps to accept their kindness and realize that they are capable of being loved. 🥺 'He can’t even explain the love... To restrict it to any one category reduces it entirely. And maybe Banjo won’t understand, but Finlay does. He finally understands it within himself.' That it is okay to accept and receive that love - an optimistic and hopeful feeling that there are those who care for them. The simple joys of humor and laughter that was missing in their lives that they finally got a chance to experience - to live! They may have been broken souls - but they are not defeated; and the people around them reminded them of that every day - with their own personal struggles that helped Finlay and Banjo on the path of healing and self-discovery. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
“He realises they’re two foreigners in this world. Two people who have nothing. They’ve travelled without ever knowing a place, they’re men inside children’s bodies, they’re soldiers who have no awareness of war and yet understand its horrors.
But they’ve found one another across the bloody barracks. Not even a lover could care the way Finlay does.”
And these feelings were portrayed in a heartfelt yet bittersweet way - one that made it so easy to get immersed in - so unflinching raw, but so intense in vividly capturing their friendship - how they gravitate towards one another - something akin to innocence and sincere to it that made it hurt even more when a misunderstanding shattered that trust. 😢 How they still somehow sought each other' presence - guidance - acceptance - how it felt like a part of their hearts was missing '– that supermassive hole in his life.' It is the way that the author tied the past with the present - how the trauma and emotions they felt during that time was something that followed them into the later stage of their lives - that I could see it without being told it, y'know. It made their growth seem that much more real and genuine to me; it is a strange explanation, but it is something that stood out for me. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
The ending was so soft - it was gentle, and so fitting; it evoked such a protective streak in me, one in which I wish that moment could have gone on longer - one that spoke volumes of how much they had grown and learned and loved. 🥹 The eventual build-up was like a crescendo, but a gentle one; one that caressed and soothed the heartache both had been carrying ever since their split - a wound that was starving for forgiveness and just a chance for closure. 'It’s the greatest act of love Finlay’s ever known.' It was really beautifully done; even if it left me wanting to see more of them together, I just felt so - loved. 💛 An embrace that rewarded me with an emotionally satisfying feeling at how they were finally able to be happy and content with life - finally at a stage in their lives, where they were with those who loved them. ✨
July 26, 2024
Certainly one of the most beautiful books I read this year! So many feelings and such wonderful storytelling, looking out for more by this author for sure.
March 20, 2025
Finlay and Banjo first established their brotherhood as roommates in a group home. Each had their own very rough childhood and were now being raised by the system. Finlay is 18 at Uni and Banjo is 17 finishing secondary as this book unfolds. They both suffer social anxieties from their intense lack of a trustful and warm home life.
I loved the gradual flashbacks to three years prior, when the boys first met. This let the background slowly unfold as to what transpired between these two which first made their brotherhood so strong, and then caused a rift that would keep them apart for so long.
My heart yearned for each of these boys to be dealt a life-card that was positive. I realized that throughout this book, they were being given these cards but their minds were messed up so much that they could not appreciate seeing how close help was to them.
These extra characters were all so empathetic. Even some initial bullies had surprise turn-a-rounds. That might be the only 'flaw' here - the fantastically positive total package this full story becomes. But we all could use some happiness, right?
The alternating chapters (Finlay/Banjo) coupled with the interspersed flashbacks really kept me addicted to reading this book. The realistic feelings of these boys leads me to believe the author must have multiple close brothers. The way guys hide thoughts, and the over-thinking what those around us 'surely must be thinking'. And even the understanding here of how guys can simply look at each other, and 'know'.
Each chapter seemed to end on feelings that felt philosophical and had me to tears regularly. Just constantly hopeful wishes that everything could miraculously work out, despite how both these boys kept pushing everyone away.
There are some relationships here that unfold that I don't want to divulge. They almost feel like a twist in the story, but not really - this WAS the story all along. It just wasn't the same pairing that the first part of the book led me to believe might happen. But when it did happen, you read lines that make it clear:
I like being in the middle of your life. I would watch you brush your teeth.
Romantic guy thoughts, for sure.
Even though these boys felt their own harsh life-path was their own fault, they had inner purity.
I wanted to be a nurse so I'd have proof that I'm a good person.
This line appeals to me since it is SO applicable to all of us (well, most of us). Our first wishful jobs as a child are often superheros. They can stick with us. Our first real jobs are to make $, but we learn to want a life that will leave a positive trail.
These boys are truly scared to make friends.
He made a vow to himself three years ago. He'd never need anyone again.
...
The thing is, everyone I care about just leaves me.
The friends here in this book are the ones we all wish we really had.
Solid 4.5*
I loved the gradual flashbacks to three years prior, when the boys first met. This let the background slowly unfold as to what transpired between these two which first made their brotherhood so strong, and then caused a rift that would keep them apart for so long.
My heart yearned for each of these boys to be dealt a life-card that was positive. I realized that throughout this book, they were being given these cards but their minds were messed up so much that they could not appreciate seeing how close help was to them.
These extra characters were all so empathetic. Even some initial bullies had surprise turn-a-rounds. That might be the only 'flaw' here - the fantastically positive total package this full story becomes. But we all could use some happiness, right?
The alternating chapters (Finlay/Banjo) coupled with the interspersed flashbacks really kept me addicted to reading this book. The realistic feelings of these boys leads me to believe the author must have multiple close brothers. The way guys hide thoughts, and the over-thinking what those around us 'surely must be thinking'. And even the understanding here of how guys can simply look at each other, and 'know'.
Each chapter seemed to end on feelings that felt philosophical and had me to tears regularly. Just constantly hopeful wishes that everything could miraculously work out, despite how both these boys kept pushing everyone away.
There are some relationships here that unfold that I don't want to divulge. They almost feel like a twist in the story, but not really - this WAS the story all along. It just wasn't the same pairing that the first part of the book led me to believe might happen. But when it did happen, you read lines that make it clear:
I like being in the middle of your life. I would watch you brush your teeth.
Romantic guy thoughts, for sure.
Even though these boys felt their own harsh life-path was their own fault, they had inner purity.
I wanted to be a nurse so I'd have proof that I'm a good person.
This line appeals to me since it is SO applicable to all of us (well, most of us). Our first wishful jobs as a child are often superheros. They can stick with us. Our first real jobs are to make $, but we learn to want a life that will leave a positive trail.
These boys are truly scared to make friends.
He made a vow to himself three years ago. He'd never need anyone again.
...
The thing is, everyone I care about just leaves me.
The friends here in this book are the ones we all wish we really had.
Solid 4.5*
May 3, 2024
A deeply emotional story!
Glasgow Boys plunges into the life of two boys who grow up in the care system and the trauma such an upbringing can leave them with.
Finlay and Banjo used to be best friends, each other's anchor, until a fight due to miscommunication and hidden fears caused them to fall out for good and never see each other again.
Neither of them has fully moved on: Finlay stopped letting people in to avoid getting hurt when they eventually leave him and Banjo believes he deserves nothing good in his life, picking up fights and driving people away with hostility.
Both boys are finally close to finding their footing in life, and their past falling out is the mental obstacle between them and happiness. They will need to face their trauma head-on to avoid losing new friends, a boyfriend and a girlfriend, a new found family...
The book is bittersweet and quite heavy at several moments - the road to recovery is steep and slippery. It's also optimistic because you can see the changes happen slowly and steadily in the boys' minds.
If I have one criticism, is that the climax and turning point takes place too late - I would like more space in the end showing their "post-meeting" lives.
An excellent debut overall by Margaret McDonald!
Edit: The book is out now!
Thank you NetGalley and Faber & Faber for the ARC!
Glasgow Boys plunges into the life of two boys who grow up in the care system and the trauma such an upbringing can leave them with.
Finlay and Banjo used to be best friends, each other's anchor, until a fight due to miscommunication and hidden fears caused them to fall out for good and never see each other again.
Neither of them has fully moved on: Finlay stopped letting people in to avoid getting hurt when they eventually leave him and Banjo believes he deserves nothing good in his life, picking up fights and driving people away with hostility.
Both boys are finally close to finding their footing in life, and their past falling out is the mental obstacle between them and happiness. They will need to face their trauma head-on to avoid losing new friends, a boyfriend and a girlfriend, a new found family...
The book is bittersweet and quite heavy at several moments - the road to recovery is steep and slippery. It's also optimistic because you can see the changes happen slowly and steadily in the boys' minds.
If I have one criticism, is that the climax and turning point takes place too late - I would like more space in the end showing their "post-meeting" lives.
An excellent debut overall by Margaret McDonald!
Edit: The book is out now!
Thank you NetGalley and Faber & Faber for the ARC!
September 1, 2024
I really wanted to love this one, purely based on the premise from the back cover. But I don’t think this one was for me. Or at least not anymore. Feels like I couldn’t really find any essence I could relate to in the simplicity of this novel, although written in a way that makes it quick to read. I think it would be of relevance for adolescents and others who are yet to come to terms with their sexuality, and I wish I had access to such texts as a kid, but I personally power-read through it, just so I could tick it as “read”.
I find several problems related to the narrative, though they’re rather technical than plot-related. The action is set in Glasgow, but I am not fully convinced of the Glasgow surroundings and environment. It felt like name-dropping, like the hospital and University of Glasgow campus, but I felt like they could be replaced with any major-city locations, Scottish, English, French, etc., wouldn’t have made much difference. I think that the inclusion of the Scots glossary made it a tad more authentic, but I felt Glasgow could’ve been any other possible location. I'm only bringing it up because the Author includes the city name in the title, thus rendering it somewhat relevant.
There are other narrative style features that I’d like to discuss briefly, without any spoilers. First, the dialogues felt very awkward and unnatural. All the side characters seem to be perpetually happy, joyful, and radiant, whereas the titular boys seem to be negative and miserable all the time. Note that we know they’ve both been traumatised as children, but I didn’t feel very reliable to me. I would’ve expected a broader scale of emotions. I don’t understand this “trauma response” sort of mechanism that the characters display, for instance not remembering having been in the same hospital just a few years back, or completely forgetting someone, despite shared experiences. I don’t think that a 300-page read on secondary school/university boys allowed for a proper exploration of the topic to render it more realistic and relatable. For some reason, all the side characters glow up as soon as either protagonist makes an appearance, even though the latter do not give much in return.
Overall, the read was... cute. I think that someone who’s new to LGBTQ+ reads would appreciate it, but I’d only recommend it to the younger or inexperienced audience (no NSFW content). I am personally a bit disappointed because the section I picked this book from led me to believe that I’d deal with a piece of Scottish literature... But all the best to the Author and fingers crossed for future publications, because it is a promising debut!
I find several problems related to the narrative, though they’re rather technical than plot-related. The action is set in Glasgow, but I am not fully convinced of the Glasgow surroundings and environment. It felt like name-dropping, like the hospital and University of Glasgow campus, but I felt like they could be replaced with any major-city locations, Scottish, English, French, etc., wouldn’t have made much difference. I think that the inclusion of the Scots glossary made it a tad more authentic, but I felt Glasgow could’ve been any other possible location. I'm only bringing it up because the Author includes the city name in the title, thus rendering it somewhat relevant.
There are other narrative style features that I’d like to discuss briefly, without any spoilers. First, the dialogues felt very awkward and unnatural. All the side characters seem to be perpetually happy, joyful, and radiant, whereas the titular boys seem to be negative and miserable all the time. Note that we know they’ve both been traumatised as children, but I didn’t feel very reliable to me. I would’ve expected a broader scale of emotions. I don’t understand this “trauma response” sort of mechanism that the characters display, for instance not remembering having been in the same hospital just a few years back, or completely forgetting someone, despite shared experiences. I don’t think that a 300-page read on secondary school/university boys allowed for a proper exploration of the topic to render it more realistic and relatable. For some reason, all the side characters glow up as soon as either protagonist makes an appearance, even though the latter do not give much in return.
Overall, the read was... cute. I think that someone who’s new to LGBTQ+ reads would appreciate it, but I’d only recommend it to the younger or inexperienced audience (no NSFW content). I am personally a bit disappointed because the section I picked this book from led me to believe that I’d deal with a piece of Scottish literature... But all the best to the Author and fingers crossed for future publications, because it is a promising debut!
February 13, 2024
What a beautiful book! I have to admit, I am a sucker for books set in the city where I work and have previously lived but, even if it hadn't been set in Glasgow, I would still have loved it.
The titular Glasgow Boys are Finlay and Banjo with the story told in alternating chapters from their perspectives. Both have a history of being in care, or 'looked after', with Banjo now living with foster parents and Finlay starting a nursing degree at the University of Glasgow (where I am currently a mature student).
Although it becomes apparent that Finlay and Banjo are known to each other, it is not clear how or why until we are drip fed some back story. What we do know, in the present day, is that both of them are struggling to comes to terms with growing up and are still caught up in their difficult pasta.
I absolutely fell in love with both characters and I am sure you will do the same. I won't give away too much more but there are plenty of tears of sadness and joy, smiles and tantrums and everything in-between.
A truly brilliant novel which will be enjoyed by all.
Thanks to Netgalley, and Faber and Faber for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The titular Glasgow Boys are Finlay and Banjo with the story told in alternating chapters from their perspectives. Both have a history of being in care, or 'looked after', with Banjo now living with foster parents and Finlay starting a nursing degree at the University of Glasgow (where I am currently a mature student).
Although it becomes apparent that Finlay and Banjo are known to each other, it is not clear how or why until we are drip fed some back story. What we do know, in the present day, is that both of them are struggling to comes to terms with growing up and are still caught up in their difficult pasta.
I absolutely fell in love with both characters and I am sure you will do the same. I won't give away too much more but there are plenty of tears of sadness and joy, smiles and tantrums and everything in-between.
A truly brilliant novel which will be enjoyed by all.
Thanks to Netgalley, and Faber and Faber for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
May 28, 2025
This book has completely blown me away. What a devastatingly beautiful story. Through the lives of Banjo and Finlay, two boys bound by their shared childhood in care, we are pulled into a raw, aching coming-of-age, woven with trauma, violence, and loneliness, and yet, within all the darkness, this story soars with the quiet, profound power of human connection, physical intimacy, and the power of love amongst friends. It shattered me, and I will carry these boys with me for a long, long time.
It's a phenomenal debut novel!
It's a phenomenal debut novel!
July 4, 2024
Because his whole life he's hated men. But Finlay's different. Finlay's the kind of man Banjo wants to be.
One of the most rewarding books I've ever had the pleasure of reading. So much of Banjo and Finlay's inner monologue is like reading your own thoughts from someone else's point of view, and that is what is so beautiful (and devastating) about this book.
The dual timeline pacing was perfect, while also excruciating. So badly, I wanted to know what happened between them and when I finally got that piece of the story all I could think between tears was, well you asked for it.
This was so heartbreaking, and still such a joy. The chosen family had me bursting at the seams with happiness and relief for these boys that didn't think they'd ever experience this kind of love and affection, yet so desperately needed it. I wanted to scream YOU ARE WORTHY at both of them, and had to remind myself countless times these are fictional characters. Though, the story is anything but.
I'll just be thinking about Banjo and Finlay everyday for the rest of my life. Thanks.
One of the most rewarding books I've ever had the pleasure of reading. So much of Banjo and Finlay's inner monologue is like reading your own thoughts from someone else's point of view, and that is what is so beautiful (and devastating) about this book.
The dual timeline pacing was perfect, while also excruciating. So badly, I wanted to know what happened between them and when I finally got that piece of the story all I could think between tears was, well you asked for it.
This was so heartbreaking, and still such a joy. The chosen family had me bursting at the seams with happiness and relief for these boys that didn't think they'd ever experience this kind of love and affection, yet so desperately needed it. I wanted to scream YOU ARE WORTHY at both of them, and had to remind myself countless times these are fictional characters. Though, the story is anything but.
I'll just be thinking about Banjo and Finlay everyday for the rest of my life. Thanks.
May 20, 2024
Two broken boys,with lots of baggage. Two boys who can´t connect, who can´t bear to be touched, literally of metaphorically. One resorts to anger, the other withdraws within himself. Broken families,loss and pain. A budding friendship,broken during a terrible night. And yet, this is a beautiful,beautiful book. Gorgeous prose,pitch perfect characterization,characters you love and root for. A story, ultimately, of the power of redemption through love,both given and received (if you let it).
June 26, 2024
Honestly, as someone who loves the city and all things queer, I found this disappointing. It’s written like a teenage fan fiction, without any of the juicy details. Even the references to the city made me squirm a little - as if someone googled “places to visit in Glasgow”.
There are some heartfelt moments, and I did shed a tear towards the end, but I do believe I was just caught in a vulnerable moment.
There are some heartfelt moments, and I did shed a tear towards the end, but I do believe I was just caught in a vulnerable moment.
June 16, 2024
What a book. It is heart breaking, but warm and loving at the same time. I felt like a little girl again, looking for love and friendship and I hope that one day she‘ll find what Finley and Banjo have. ✨
May 15, 2024
This book... It might be too early to say but it's one of the most beautiful stories I've ever read. It's just so much it's so full of love and hope and loneliness and I'm babbling but that's because I am helpless against this book.
You meet these two boys, one studying to become a nurse, the other trying to settle in his new school. These boys who've never really known kindness, a home, family, friendship except in each other and that they lost. You cannot help but fall in love with them as you experience their vulnerability and fears as well as the joy, love and friendship they never really had and don't really think they deserve. It's so vulnerable and lonely and incredibly human.
They love so loud, so fully and desperately but they're also both very scared because of what they lost and what they don't ever want to lose again.
You have banjo who feels so much all the time and so loudly he's helpless against his emotions and feels like he's bound to destroy every good thing in his life, his new job, friends, his foster family.
"He always makes one thing too important, always makes it the only thing he's got, the only thing that makes him worthy of anyone or anything in life, and it always makes it hurt worse when it's gone."
And Finlay, my beloved awkward anxious little soul. I wish I could express how much I love him and how much I felt for his loneliness. While Banjo is loud and his feelings rageing, Finlay hides, he buries it all within himself.
"It would be so easy to fix, but someone threw him away. He's shy because he's not from here. He doesn't know anybody. And he doesn't speak because people make fun of his voice. So he's sad, because no matter where he is... he can never be home."
And somehow they still have each other, they share a pain, a history, a love and it's really beautiful. They're so lonely and don't really give themselves away and it's so beautiful to see them find good things, beautiful things. And I have cried so much of heartbreak, of joy of hope because somehow this book is so incredibly full of it and despite the heavier topics it doesn't leave you in pain but with your heart full of hope and love for these glasgow boys.
You meet these two boys, one studying to become a nurse, the other trying to settle in his new school. These boys who've never really known kindness, a home, family, friendship except in each other and that they lost. You cannot help but fall in love with them as you experience their vulnerability and fears as well as the joy, love and friendship they never really had and don't really think they deserve. It's so vulnerable and lonely and incredibly human.
They love so loud, so fully and desperately but they're also both very scared because of what they lost and what they don't ever want to lose again.
You have banjo who feels so much all the time and so loudly he's helpless against his emotions and feels like he's bound to destroy every good thing in his life, his new job, friends, his foster family.
"He always makes one thing too important, always makes it the only thing he's got, the only thing that makes him worthy of anyone or anything in life, and it always makes it hurt worse when it's gone."
And Finlay, my beloved awkward anxious little soul. I wish I could express how much I love him and how much I felt for his loneliness. While Banjo is loud and his feelings rageing, Finlay hides, he buries it all within himself.
"It would be so easy to fix, but someone threw him away. He's shy because he's not from here. He doesn't know anybody. And he doesn't speak because people make fun of his voice. So he's sad, because no matter where he is... he can never be home."
And somehow they still have each other, they share a pain, a history, a love and it's really beautiful. They're so lonely and don't really give themselves away and it's so beautiful to see them find good things, beautiful things. And I have cried so much of heartbreak, of joy of hope because somehow this book is so incredibly full of it and despite the heavier topics it doesn't leave you in pain but with your heart full of hope and love for these glasgow boys.
January 4, 2025
two boys who grew up in care, one of them gay, but it’s not a tragedy – it’s actually a most beautiful story of how love and vulnerability can help us heal. incredibly touching. i loved it.
July 13, 2025
3.5 stars. This was really sweet, and sad, and fun, and honest. Very lovable characters and so nice to read a book taking place in an unromanticised, real Scotland. A simple story but special nonetheless. If the pacing was a bit better and the characters had more of a backstory told this would’ve been a solid 4 stars.
December 23, 2023
A book full of light & love
January 14, 2025
"My family... is who I allow it to be."
Oh my God. This book. It's so simple. Two boys in foster care. And it's written in such a simple, caring way, almost like it's scared to reveal itself too much, slowly taking form page by page. It doesn't use big words or long paragraphs or takes itself too proudly (even though it should). It's a story about two boys from foster care and their lives, but it's also much more than that.
I've lived with these boys for two weeks now and I must admit, I was thinking about them almost every day. I cared for them, lived their lives through them, cried with them (oh, how much I cried!!) and felt like they're my friends and I think that's what matters in a book.
Truly captivating storytelling, lovable characters (despite all their faults and despite the fact they think they're not), it truly warmed my heart. I was grinning when they were happy and when life was kind to them and rooting for them with all their friends.
Some of the lines... really hit hard and hit close to home. Sometimes there would be a line in the middle of a paragraph and I'd have to stop, put the book down and think about it for a bit. It deals with many heavy subjects in a careful, almost reserved way, again, not letting itself be seen in the main focus, just like its character, but it should be. It's really worth seeing.
Glasgow Boys gripped my heart in this dull and stressful January and I will always be grateful for randomly picking this book up!
Oh my God. This book. It's so simple. Two boys in foster care. And it's written in such a simple, caring way, almost like it's scared to reveal itself too much, slowly taking form page by page. It doesn't use big words or long paragraphs or takes itself too proudly (even though it should). It's a story about two boys from foster care and their lives, but it's also much more than that.
I've lived with these boys for two weeks now and I must admit, I was thinking about them almost every day. I cared for them, lived their lives through them, cried with them (oh, how much I cried!!) and felt like they're my friends and I think that's what matters in a book.
Truly captivating storytelling, lovable characters (despite all their faults and despite the fact they think they're not), it truly warmed my heart. I was grinning when they were happy and when life was kind to them and rooting for them with all their friends.
Some of the lines... really hit hard and hit close to home. Sometimes there would be a line in the middle of a paragraph and I'd have to stop, put the book down and think about it for a bit. It deals with many heavy subjects in a careful, almost reserved way, again, not letting itself be seen in the main focus, just like its character, but it should be. It's really worth seeing.
Glasgow Boys gripped my heart in this dull and stressful January and I will always be grateful for randomly picking this book up!
Read
July 7, 2024I’m so sad and yet I want to live in the pages of this book forever so I can find these boys and hug them incredibly tight. I adored this so much, and it is probably one of my favourite reads ever. Finlay and Banjo are so precious. McDonald paints them in quite broad strokes, but every one hits its mark. You get such a sense of their vibrant personalities but also their isolation, their deep hurt, their incongruent feelings of longing for someone to see them - to see through them - and struggle to let someone close enough to do so. The plot and pacing also flow effortlessly, and the side characters are all so lovely as well - I even appreciated Kyle. It honestly reads like fan fiction, in the best way. Absolutely gorgeous.
July 12, 2024
Visceral, heartbreaking, and unflinching -- but balanced by levity, heart, and hope. Glasgow Boys is a beautiful story about finding (and believing in) your worth, chosen family, and second chances in the aftermath of trauma. Did I cry? Yes. Did I smile? Yes. Did I do both at the same time? Yes. This was absolutely brilliant.
June 11, 2024
3.5 stars
Heartwrenching and tender, you can’t help but root for Banjo and Finlay. Would have preferred a deeper insight into their pasts rather than just hints and at times it felt just a bit too convenient.
Heartwrenching and tender, you can’t help but root for Banjo and Finlay. Would have preferred a deeper insight into their pasts rather than just hints and at times it felt just a bit too convenient.
April 6, 2025
A beautiful, tender read about love, friendship and hardship. Emotive, hopeful, sensitive. ‘My family is…who I allow it to be’ Really enjoyed this one.
May 3, 2025
Full of emotion.
If you like Shuggie then this is for you!
If you like Shuggie then this is for you!
February 22, 2024
Our Glasgow Boys are Finlay and Banjo, with the story told in alternating chapters from their perspectives. Both have a history of being in care, being ‘looked after children’, with Banjo now living with a new pair of foster parents and Finlay starting a nursing degree at the University of Glasgow.
Banjo is one angry teenager, spoiling for fights everywhere he goes. His emotions spill over frequently, and he struggles to connect with those around him because of it. But, sure, isn’t this a form of self-preservation too? It’s a painful thing to develop an emotional bond and then get moved along again through a care system that seems to have next to no ‘care’ in it.
Finlay is thankful for a “talent scholarship” to go to university, but instead of believing himself a worthy “talent”, he thinks of it as a hardship grant. Rather than project his trauma outwardly, like Banjo, Finlay thinks himself unlovable, so he retreats as much as he can. However, on his first freshers day, he bumps into an old childhood friend who is keen to reconnect and build a relationship but struggles with the idea that someone could want to be around him - he is drenched in shame at his past and lack of family connections.
It soon becomes apparent that our protagonists know each other, and steadily, we are drip-fed their backstories: they are two boys so different, but once close as brothers when they lived in the same group care home. Neither of them having had a hug for ages. Both surviving on their own. Neither of them needing anyone else, or so they’d have you think anyway.
McDonald’s use of Scots dialect helps make the story come alive on the page, and the raw reality of these characters is beautifully carved out, and they’ll live in my heart for a long while.
Fans of Shuggie Bain, Young Mungo and Boys Don’t Cry will inhale Glasgow Boys with its incisive portrayal of young masculinity and poignant display of human emotions. 4.5⭐️
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me an advance copy; as always, this is an honest review. Glasgow Boys is out in May, but you can (and should) preorder now.
Banjo is one angry teenager, spoiling for fights everywhere he goes. His emotions spill over frequently, and he struggles to connect with those around him because of it. But, sure, isn’t this a form of self-preservation too? It’s a painful thing to develop an emotional bond and then get moved along again through a care system that seems to have next to no ‘care’ in it.
Finlay is thankful for a “talent scholarship” to go to university, but instead of believing himself a worthy “talent”, he thinks of it as a hardship grant. Rather than project his trauma outwardly, like Banjo, Finlay thinks himself unlovable, so he retreats as much as he can. However, on his first freshers day, he bumps into an old childhood friend who is keen to reconnect and build a relationship but struggles with the idea that someone could want to be around him - he is drenched in shame at his past and lack of family connections.
It soon becomes apparent that our protagonists know each other, and steadily, we are drip-fed their backstories: they are two boys so different, but once close as brothers when they lived in the same group care home. Neither of them having had a hug for ages. Both surviving on their own. Neither of them needing anyone else, or so they’d have you think anyway.
McDonald’s use of Scots dialect helps make the story come alive on the page, and the raw reality of these characters is beautifully carved out, and they’ll live in my heart for a long while.
Fans of Shuggie Bain, Young Mungo and Boys Don’t Cry will inhale Glasgow Boys with its incisive portrayal of young masculinity and poignant display of human emotions. 4.5⭐️
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me an advance copy; as always, this is an honest review. Glasgow Boys is out in May, but you can (and should) preorder now.
February 14, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💬 "Banjo could be every emotion in the span of a sentence, but when he was hurt he carried it around and held it close. It took a lot of prying his fingers apart to make him let it go. They understood each other in that way. When Finlay was hurt he would throw sand over it, bury it, avoid it. Banjo knew every which way to dig.“
💭 GLASGOW BOYS is a beautiful coming-of-age story, following two boys who meet whilst in Glasgow’s care system. It explores themes such as masculinity, identity and forgiveness with tenderness and love, and I adored it.
The Glasgow boys: Finlay and Banjo. Banjo and Finlay. Once unlikely allies at St Andrews care home, the boys are no longer in contact. Now, Finlay studies nursing - struggling to keep up with assignments, struggling to make friends - and Banjo lives with his new foster parents - struggling to keep his anger from boiling over, struggling to make friends. It’s been a long time since the boys were as close as brothers, but to get back to that point, they’ll have to learn not only to forgive one another, but also to forgive themselves.
This book! One word: incredible. Another word: heartbreaking. The dual POV worked really well, as did the flashbacks to Finlay and Banjo’s time at St Andrews. But the real highlight of this novel was the characters. And honestly, these characters! I wanted to scoop them all up into my arms and give them a great big squeeeeeeze. Not just Banjo and Finlay, but Alena and Akash, the girls from Finlay’s course, the nurses from his placement, and Alena’s family too - they all deserve all the of love.
GLASGOW BOYS is a powerful, emotional debut (!!) which is bound to leave you in tears (as all the best books do). McDonald ripped my heart out and then put it back together, and these characters are going to stay with me a long time; I utterly adored them.
This one is perfect for fans of SHUGGIE BAIN, YOUNG MUNGO and CLOSE TO HOME, I really recommend everyone picks it up. I think it would be impossible not to fall in love with these characters.
💬 "Banjo could be every emotion in the span of a sentence, but when he was hurt he carried it around and held it close. It took a lot of prying his fingers apart to make him let it go. They understood each other in that way. When Finlay was hurt he would throw sand over it, bury it, avoid it. Banjo knew every which way to dig.“
💭 GLASGOW BOYS is a beautiful coming-of-age story, following two boys who meet whilst in Glasgow’s care system. It explores themes such as masculinity, identity and forgiveness with tenderness and love, and I adored it.
The Glasgow boys: Finlay and Banjo. Banjo and Finlay. Once unlikely allies at St Andrews care home, the boys are no longer in contact. Now, Finlay studies nursing - struggling to keep up with assignments, struggling to make friends - and Banjo lives with his new foster parents - struggling to keep his anger from boiling over, struggling to make friends. It’s been a long time since the boys were as close as brothers, but to get back to that point, they’ll have to learn not only to forgive one another, but also to forgive themselves.
This book! One word: incredible. Another word: heartbreaking. The dual POV worked really well, as did the flashbacks to Finlay and Banjo’s time at St Andrews. But the real highlight of this novel was the characters. And honestly, these characters! I wanted to scoop them all up into my arms and give them a great big squeeeeeeze. Not just Banjo and Finlay, but Alena and Akash, the girls from Finlay’s course, the nurses from his placement, and Alena’s family too - they all deserve all the of love.
GLASGOW BOYS is a powerful, emotional debut (!!) which is bound to leave you in tears (as all the best books do). McDonald ripped my heart out and then put it back together, and these characters are going to stay with me a long time; I utterly adored them.
This one is perfect for fans of SHUGGIE BAIN, YOUNG MUNGO and CLOSE TO HOME, I really recommend everyone picks it up. I think it would be impossible not to fall in love with these characters.
February 26, 2024
"My family is... who I allow it to be"
Sometimes a book just comes along and hits you full force in the chest. I've written a few reviews now where I talk about books that just make me ✨️feel ✨️ and this is one of them. I absolutely love Banjo and Finlay 🥺.
I really connected with Finlay's anxiety and I think everyone has met someone from Glasgow who is a bit like Banjo!
I loved the slow build-up to the ending. A conversation years in the making, that was absolute perfection. It truly showed the magic in being vulnerable, open, and honest with the people you love. I just wish they were braver to do it earlier.
" I think it's because you were my first love."
I laughed out loud and I cried throughout. So many sweet moments and so many bitter memories. I loved it when Banjo offered Alena's mum and dad money for dinner 😂 so cute 🥰.
Banjo and Finlay will stay with me always. I don't want to leave them and wish I could continue reading their story. Another book to add to my forever collection ❤️
Sometimes a book just comes along and hits you full force in the chest. I've written a few reviews now where I talk about books that just make me ✨️feel ✨️ and this is one of them. I absolutely love Banjo and Finlay 🥺.
I really connected with Finlay's anxiety and I think everyone has met someone from Glasgow who is a bit like Banjo!
I loved the slow build-up to the ending. A conversation years in the making, that was absolute perfection. It truly showed the magic in being vulnerable, open, and honest with the people you love. I just wish they were braver to do it earlier.
" I think it's because you were my first love."
I laughed out loud and I cried throughout. So many sweet moments and so many bitter memories. I loved it when Banjo offered Alena's mum and dad money for dinner 😂 so cute 🥰.
Banjo and Finlay will stay with me always. I don't want to leave them and wish I could continue reading their story. Another book to add to my forever collection ❤️
June 4, 2024
If I could give this book infinite stars I would.
May 10, 2025
Hoewel het boek leest als een young-adult, is het bijzonder hoe het de impact van hechtingsproblematiek op het verdere leven van een kind belicht. Het laat zien hoeveel geduld van de omgeving nodig is om een band op te bouwen. Dit boek doet precies wat literatuur hoort te doen: het wekt empathie door je in de schoenen van een ander te laten staan.
July 24, 2025
Ripped my heart out, then tenderly put it back in. The best book I've read this year.
August 12, 2024
very wholesome vibes
▪️i seen this and immediately thought it'd give shuggie bain vibes and it did have similarities, but was just wholly more optimistic and less dark
▪️i am so glad that this book delved into finlays sexuality, but that the boys relationship wasn't simply a romantic one, because that would have felt too obvious - i love that margaret mcdonald highlighted just how important platonic love is too
▪️i absolutely loved seeing the two boys separate journeys through care and how they interact with the world through their experiences - we always say at work "hurt people hurt people" and this book was a brilliant example of this, and how we should consider others life experiences and trauma when interacting with them
absolutely brilliant 100% recommend, especially as it's set in glasgow!!
▪️i seen this and immediately thought it'd give shuggie bain vibes and it did have similarities, but was just wholly more optimistic and less dark
▪️i am so glad that this book delved into finlays sexuality, but that the boys relationship wasn't simply a romantic one, because that would have felt too obvious - i love that margaret mcdonald highlighted just how important platonic love is too
▪️i absolutely loved seeing the two boys separate journeys through care and how they interact with the world through their experiences - we always say at work "hurt people hurt people" and this book was a brilliant example of this, and how we should consider others life experiences and trauma when interacting with them
absolutely brilliant 100% recommend, especially as it's set in glasgow!!
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