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2026 Nominated

The Names

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ABOUT
THE BOOK

In the aftermath of a great storm, Cora sets out to register the birth of her son. Seven years later, her son is Bear, named by his sister, one that will prove as cataclysmic as the storm from which it emerged. Or he is Julian, the name his mother set her heart on, believing it would enable him to become his own person. Or he is Gordon, named after his father and raised in his cruel image – but is there still a chance to break the mould?

Powerfully moving, full of hope, this is the story of the power of a single decision and three versions of a life.

ABOUT
THE AUTHOR Florence
Knapp

Florence Knapp has previously written a non-fiction book about a centuries-old method of quilt making, as well as contributing to a book for the V&A Museum. She lives just outside London with her husband and their dog. Their two children have now flown the nest. The Names is Florence’s debut novel and will be translated into more than twenty languages.

Florence Knapp has previously written a non-fiction book about a centuries-old method of quilt making, as well as contributing to a book for the V&A Museum. She lives just outside London with her husband and their dog. Their two children have now flown the nest. The Names is Florence’s debut novel and will be translated into more than twenty languages.

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NOMINATING LIBRARY COMMENTS

The author takes nominative determinism as a framework to shape the concept that guides this novel. It is original and intriguing whilst maintaining a strong plot and vivid characterisation. The ease of reading belies the depth and quality of the writing and it’s a book to unreservedly recommend. (Limerick City Library)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Date published
06/05/2025
Country
United Kingdom
Publisher
Weidenfeld & Nicolson
Borrow this book from Libraries Ireland

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