Umbrella

Discover the compelling narrative of Umbrella by Will Self, a novel that was shortlisted for the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2012. This thought-provoking book delves into the life of Audrey Death, who has been trapped in a state of semi-consciousness for fifty years due to Encephalitis lethargica. Residing in Friern Barnet Mental Hospital, her existence is transformed with the arrival of the unconventional psychiatrist Dr. Zack Busner in 1971. Through Audrey's memories, readers are transported to a rich tapestry of Edwardian London, where themes of love, activism, and survival are woven together. This 416-page novel, published in 2013, explores the complexities of the human mind and the impact of historical events on personal identity. Join Will Self on a journey that intertwines the past and present, offering a unique perspective on life, illness, and the resilience of the human spirit.