Tommy's marriage has broken down and he's returned to his native Blackpool somewhat against his will for a friend's funeral and to watch his recently widowed father. It's fair to say his life is not going well. It's the off season and the whole place is depressing. The story starts with him in a small café with his dad and a small group of friends.
A group of performers show up outside despite the dismal weather and set up their stalls. The café empties steadily as all those inside are almost bewitched by their presence. Tommy and his Dad find themselves inside the throng of revellers. Old truths come to the surface and an old wish of his Dad's is discovered.
This is a well written book that builds the atmosphere steadily. The last half definitely worked better for me than the first half. Once the story started moving I found this was a weird and wonderful piece of writing. I did think it took a good chunk of the book to get going though.
It's well worth reading for those who like character and family studies dealing with grief and loss and eventual hope woven in with their wyrd tales. Fortunately, I am one of those people.
