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Douglas Stuart Explores Identity in New Novel
14 Jun
Summary
- New novel 'John Of John' by Douglas Stuart released.
- Story follows John-Calum Macleod returning to his island home.
- Stuart discusses influences: 'Gilead', 'Amongst Women', 'Lost Language of Cranes'.
Douglas Stuart, the Booker Prize-winning author, has released his latest novel, titled 'John Of John.' The narrative centers on John-Calum Macleod, who, upon concluding his art school education, journeys back to the island of Harris. There, he finds his childhood surroundings unchanged, contrasting with his own personal evolution.
MacLeod navigates his return to a windswept croft, caught between his father, a devout Presbyterian sheep farmer and weaver, and his grandmother Ella from Glasgow. This return highlights the tension between his past and his present.
In a recent discussion, Stuart shared the literary influences behind 'John Of John.' These include David Leavitt's 'The Lost Language of Cranes' (1986), Marilynne Robinson's 'Gilead' (2004), and John McGahern's 'Amongst Women' (1990). The conversation occurred at the Hay Festival 2026.
