This Bright Life

By Karen Campbell

Gerard is twelve. He hates his name, but loves flying round the streets of Glasgow on his bike, or mucking about with his gang, the Broncos. He’s a bright kid, but trouble seems to follow him. No one really knows what it’s like at home for Gerard; he’s used to carrying a lot on his small shoulders.

Gerard doesn’t always make good decisions. And on one April morning, in the blink of an eye, he makes a very bad one – one that will upend his whole world.

Now, he faces a bewildering stream of concerned adults clutching files, unfamiliar streets to navigate, a strange bed to sleep in, and the very real chance he won’t see his wee brother and sister again.

Heartbreaking and yet brimful of humour, compassion and hope, This Bright Life is a story about messy lives, second chances and the many hands it takes to build a boy.

Reviews of This Bright Life

"This Bright Life is a moving, haunting portrait of childhood and the jagged reflections of one tiny action in the kaleidoscope of humanity. Karen Campbell captures the voice of 12-year-old Gerard with poignant accuracy and her words paint pictures with the touch of an old master. Ultimately life-affirming, this gritty novel will take you to dark places, but it's one beautiful, uplifting journey" — JANICE HALLETT

"I love this story so much. Karen writes with such a rare and deep understanding of people and every word of her stories earns its keep. This Bright Life is dark, moving and compassionate and, just like Paper Cup, it's a story filled with hope. I think that's what I love the most about Karen's writing: it makes you feel hopeful, like a handrail in the dark. I adore it" — JOANNA CANNON

"This story of the fragility of life will break your heart but don't worry, it will mend it again in the most beautiful way, reminding you of the indomitable nature of the human spirit. A novel full of compassion and hope" — ELISSA SOAVE

"Praise for Paper Cup: Exquisitely written – and I mean catch-your-breath exquisite – the story is so real and told with such grace and compassion" — JOANNA CANNON

"Glowing with empathy and wry intelligent wit. Let Kelly into your life. She'll change you, and you won't forget her" — KIRSTIN INNES

"A rough romance written in rich language and a truly original, brilliant novel" ― Daily Mail