I think Sarah Winman has done it again. I think she has given me my book of the year in January, just as she did in 2022 with ‘Still Life‘. ‘Tin Man’ has been on the wishlist for quite some time, so when I spotted it at a bargain price, I knew I had to give it a go.
And, oh my word, this book was just stunning. Beautifully written, emotional and a real gem of a novel. Another book that, despite its emotional storyline, makes you want to pack your bag and go on an adventure – and, this time, to France and the land of Vincent van Gogh.
Ellis has been living a quiet life since the death of his wife Annie and his first love Michael in a tragic road accident – the two people he had loved most in the world. After an accident on his bike, Ellis reflects on his past, the time he spent with Michael before meeting Annie, his time with Annie and Michael, and a time in which Michael seemed to disappear from their lives. All of which leads him to make some decisions about how his life could move forward.
Michael shares his story with us, too – to fill some of those gaps that Ellis can’t, ncluding the tragedy of the Aids epidemic in the UK during the 1980s.
This book is just beautiful as it celebrates love and all the forms that love can take. It celebrates friendship, and it celebrates acceptance and kindness.
I am not sure that I can do this book justice; I think the only thing that will do it justice is that you read it yourself, especially if you were a fan of ‘Still Life’. ‘Tin Man’ is a short and beautifully formed story that I will be recommending to everyone. It has cemented Sarah Winman as one of my favourite authors, and I can not wait to read more of her books.