Holy Boys

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.

Product Information

Author: Agnes Owens
Binding: Paperback
Date of Publication: 07/05/2026
Pagination: 160 pages
Series: Agnes Owens Centenary Editions
Imprint: Polygon An Imprint of Birlinn Limited
Published By: Birlinn General
Book Classification: Modern & contemporary fiction (post c 1945)
Dimensions: 197 x 130 x 16
ISBN13/EAN/SKU: 9781846977602