Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell

Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet is a powerful and deeply moving novel that brings a little-known piece of history to life. Rather than focusing on Shakespeare himself, O’Farrell centres the story on his family – most specifically on his wife, Agnes, a vivid, intuitive, and unforgettable character whose presence radiates through every page. This choice makes the novel feel personal and fresh, turning a historical tragedy into an emotional and relatable story.

The prose is rich and sensory, alive with the textures of the natural world, making everyday ‘small’ moments feel real and momentous. Her portrayal of grief is especially striking – honest, raw, and all-encompassing – offering a clear sense of how it touches every member of the family. Free from melodrama, the emotions unfold naturally and will stay with you long after you have finished reading.

This is a beautifully written, and surprisingly hopeful, novel about family, love, and loss, reminding us of the power of storytelling: how art can grow from sorrow and lend meaning to even the most devastating human experiences.

Richard