PREORDER Gentlemen of the West

Written by Agnes Owens / Introduction by Dani Garivelli

ISBN: 9781846977602
Published: 07 May 2026
Format: Paperback
Extent: 160
Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
Imprint: Polygon

ABOUT THE BOOK
Gentlemen of the West, Agnes Owens’ debut novel, was first published in 1984 to wide critical acclaim.

The novel follows the humorous exploits of Mac, a young bricklayer, who, along with a colourful cast of characters, seeks solace and escape in the convivial atmosphere of the Paxton Arms and the levelling influence of alcohol. Each chapter feels like a self-contained episode, but this engaging novel is a cleverly constructed, coherent narrative that is a darkly humorous portrayal of working-class life.

With sharp and inventive language, the novel skilfully balances drama and comedy, making you root for the underdog.

'A moving picture of a hard, surprising world which is forcing a young man to understand it and himself' – Alasdair Gray

'Accomplished and resonant and . . . always informed with a comic astringency' – The Scotsman

'Simultaneously funny and unflinching . . . an economy of language worthy of Ernest Hemingway or Muriel Spark' – Dani Garavelli

Published to celebrate Agnes Owens' centenary year in 2026.