Maggie O'Farrell

Maggie O'Farrell is a contemporary British author known for her novels that often explore family dynamics, love, and loss with a deep emotional resonance. Her notable works include 'After You'd Gone', 'The Hand That First Held Mine', which won the Costa Novel Award, and 'Hamnet', a fictional account of the life of Shakespeare's son, which won the Women's Prize for Fiction. O'Farrell is recognized for her distinctive narrative voice and her ability to weave complex characters and themes into her storytelling.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Hamnet

    "Hamnet" is a deeply moving and beautifully written historical novel that reimagines the life of a young boy, Hamnet, who is the son of a glovemaker in Stratford-upon-Avon. The boy tragically dies at the age of 11, which leaves a profound impact on his family, particularly his father, who is inspired to write one of the world's most famous plays. The narrative alternates between the time leading up to Hamnet's death and the aftermath, providing an intimate portrait of grief, love, and the power of art.

  2. 2. The Hand That First Held Mine

    "The Hand That First Held Mine" is a captivating novel that tells two parallel stories. The first story is about a young, independent woman who moves to Soho, London in the 1950s, becomes involved in the bohemian art scene, and unexpectedly becomes a mother. The second story, set in the present day, follows a couple dealing with the chaotic and overwhelming reality of becoming first-time parents. As the novel progresses, the connection between these two narratives becomes clear, revealing a story of love, loss, and the powerful bond between a mother and her child.

  3. 3. After You’d Gone

    The novel revolves around a young woman named Alice Raikes, who, after an unexpected and traumatic event, slips into a coma. As she lies unconscious in a hospital, the narrative delves into her past, unraveling the complexities of her relationships with her family and her intense love affair. Through a series of flashbacks and the perspectives of different characters, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the intricate tapestry of human emotions that bind and separate us. The reader is taken on a poignant journey through Alice's life, uncovering the secrets and memories that led up to the fateful moment that changed everything.