'Vastly original. Bessy is surely one of the most striking characters in recent fiction: cynical, disruptive, tender and very, very funny.' Independent on Sunday

Shortlisted for the Orange Prize

Scotland, 1863. In an attempt to escape her past, Bessy Buckley takes a job working as a maid in a big country house. But when Arabella, her beautiful mistress, asks her to undertake a series of bizarre tasks, Bessy begins to realise that she hasn't quite landed on her feet. In one of the most acclaimed debuts of recent years, Jane Harris has created a heroine who will make you laugh and cry as she narrates this unforgettable story about secrets and suspicions and the redemptive power of love and friendship.

The Observations by Jane Harris is a darkly humorous and intriguing story of one woman's journey from a difficult past into an even more disturbing present . . .

About the Author
Jane Harris was born in Belfast and brought up in Glasgow. Her short stories have appeared in a wide variety of anthologies and she has also written several award-winng short films. In 2000 she received a Writer's Award from the Arts Council of England. She lives in London with her husband Tom.

Reviews
"'Funny and original.' Peter Parker, Sunday Times 'Recounted in gutsy, vibrant prose, this is guaranteed to keep you gripped.' Eve Magazine"


Awards
Short-listed for Orange Broadband Prize for Fiction 2007 and British Book Awards: Newcomer of the Year 2007.



Book Information
ISBN 9780571223367
Author Jane Harris
Format Paperback
Page Count 544
Imprint Faber & Faber
Publisher Faber & Faber
Weight(grams) 410g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 125mm * 34mm