The Horse

WINNER OF THE JOYCE CAROL OATES PRIZE

‘Extraordinary.’ ANN PATCHETT
‘Tremendously compelling.’ GUARDIAN
‘Bruised and beautiful.’ BEN MYERS
‘Transcendent.’ LA TIMES

Willy Vlautin’s most personal novel yet – a poetic and deeply moving story about what it really takes to be a musician.

Al Ward, an ageing musician, is living on old mining land in Nevada. One morning, a horse arrives outside his home, unable to feed itself or stay safe from coyotes. Six thousand feet up, thirty miles from the nearest town, and broken by alcoholism and anxiety, Al must decide what to do.

A gorgeous journey of a novel, and an unforgettable character study of a lifelong songwriter, The Horse masterfully explores ideas of loneliness, creativity and resilience.

‘Another classic from one of America’s greatest storytellers.’
JONATHAN EVISON

‘A terrific parable of art and aging.’
JESS WALTER