It's not very often that you come across a novel with a, 'social conscience' like this one. Beautifully written and combining both humour and sadness this book takes us into the world of Shep Knacker, his family and closest friends. Gasp in astonishment at the cost of healthcare in the US whilst simultaneously shouting a vote of thanks to Aneurin Bevan for the inception of the NHS. It's a long novel but one you will devour with gusto.