Description

Book Synopsis
Reinventing the folktale, the family romance, and the detective narrative all at once, the 10 stories in this collection explore the emotional and spiritual development of characters searching for meaning in life. From an insurance adjustor who has worn the same suit for 20 years to a woman mourning her thrice-dead husband, they all struggle to find themselves in these darkly comical, absurd, yet touchingly poignant short stories.

Trade Review
Matt Shaw's thoughtful stories will make the meanest reader sing; he is a fine young writer sure to make a name for himself with this solid and well-crafted first book." —Leon Rooke, author, A Good Baby

The Obvious Child

    Product form

    £16.96

    Includes FREE delivery

    RRP £19.95 – you save £2.99 (14%)

    Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Mon 17 Aug 2026.

    A Hardback by Matt Shaw

    15 in stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of The Obvious Child by Matt Shaw

      Publisher: Exile Editions
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 30/04/2008
      ISBN13: 9781550960822, 978-1550960822
      ISBN10: 1550960822
      Also in:
      Anthologies & Short Stories

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      Reinventing the folktale, the family romance, and the detective narrative all at once, the 10 stories in this collection explore the emotional and spiritual development of characters searching for meaning in life. From an insurance adjustor who has worn the same suit for 20 years to a woman mourning her thrice-dead husband, they all struggle to find themselves in these darkly comical, absurd, yet touchingly poignant short stories.

      Trade Review
      Matt Shaw's thoughtful stories will make the meanest reader sing; he is a fine young writer sure to make a name for himself with this solid and well-crafted first book." —Leon Rooke, author, A Good Baby

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account