A Song For Issy Bradley

Our book club choice for May is A Song for Issy Bradley by Carys Bray.

This is the story of what happens when Issy Bradley dies.

It is the story of Ian – husband, father, maths teacher and Mormon bishop – and his unshakeable belief that everything will turn out all right if he can only endure to the end, like the pioneers did.

It is the story of his wife Claire’s lonely wait for a sign from God and her desperate need for life to pause while she come to terms with what’s happened.

It is the story of the agony and hope of Zippy Bradley’s first love. The story of Alma Bradley’s cynicism and reluctant bravery.

And it is the story of seven-year-old Jacob. His faith is bigger than a mustard seed, probably bigger than a toffee bonbon and he’s planning on using it to mend his broken family.

Incredibly moving, unexpectedly funny and so sharply removed, A Song for Issy Bradly explores the outer reaches of doubt and faith. But mostly it’s a story about a family trying to work out how to carry on when their world has fallen apart.

‘A Song for Issy Bradley is a wonderful novel, in which grace comes crabwise and miracles are never out of the question. Undeniably heartbreaking, it is also compassionate, funny and enriching.’ Independent on Sunday

Carys Bray was brought up in a devout Mormon family. In her early thirties she left the church and replaced religion with writing. She was awarded the Scott prize for her debut short story collection. A Song for Issy Bradley is her first novel. She lives in Southport with her husband and four children.

A Song for Issy Bradley is available from all good booksellers. Don't forget that if you do receive a free copy you will need to read it before the end of May and add questions/comments to the thread.