Elizabeth Berg in Conversation with Douglas Stuart (A Virtual Program with Writing Matters)

Authors Elizabeth Berg and Douglas Stuart discuss Stuart's novel Shuggie Bain. Shuggie Bain is a story about a family devastated by the effects of poverty, abuse, alcoholism, and other devastating realities that came along with the Thatcher policies enacted in Glasgow in the 1980s. This program is possible through a partnership between Writing Matters and The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association. Shuggie Bain is shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

[ShelfHelpClub]

Such a brilliant conversation - thank you. Ordering the book now

[beamarin]

If I could, I would tell everyone how poetic and beautifully written this book is. But, beyond that, I am certain that it is also of academic value in both Literature and Psychology. I’m still recovering from several stabs on my heart… Shuggy’s panic and soul-crashing offer once he realizes he has no money to pay the cab, Leek’s 2-year old art school letter, Agnes’s vulnerability during her first AA meeting, seeing how the mother of Shuggy’s friend is on the street, exactly how Leek predicted Agnes would end, had she not died sooner, the beatings at school, Catherine’s need to remain away… and (too) many more. But it is so well written, that you go through this with full awareness as if it happened to you, and so your own coping mechanisms gear up and, with this, love and laughter. I absolutely adored Shuggy Bain and will say so at every opportunity I have.

[katherinebryan]

My heart was in my mouth when I read this book. I was so afraid Shuggie would meet a monster. I so appreciate Douglas Stuart for not taking him down a super evil road. It was sad enough. I just loved this book. So much.

[dianasandiegodecorator]

I've rarely read a book with so many characters and settings so very well realized. I became completely immersed in Shuggie's family, his home, his neighborhood. I was there, at the center of it, feeling every feeling and experiencing every experience. I almost didn't need to use my own imagination while reading this incredible book.

[lindaschlachter]

I'm so delighted to have participated in this conversation. Douglas is every bit as delightful as his Shuggie character. I hope that he continues to write. I'm infatuated with Douglas' style. I love getting into the characters as he has done. Elizabeth Berg is also a number one favorite of mine for the very same reasons. Thank you both! PS: Douglas, I don't do twitter or instagram so I implore you to get on Face Book. I think many "older" people would appreciate it.

[norabruemmer]

This was lovely. Thank you so much. I will watch it again and probably, again.

[giuseppinasanger]

I’m loving Shuggie Bain and in awe of Douglas Stuart

[joanvibert]

This was beyond fabulous! I read the book as soon as Elizabeth mentioned it - and I read it quickly because I couldn't put it down - so now I will reread with new knowledge and the wonderful words of Douglas reading excerpts in my head. So so so beautiful. Thanks to everyone for this. I will now go tear up the book I've written - it is so mundane!!!

[terrybresee]

I am reading it now. Thank you both for this amazing presentation.