Harvill Secker How to Build a Boat

How to Build a Boat, published by Harvill Secker, introduces Jamie O’Neill and the community around him on the west coast of Ireland. Jamie loves the colour red, tall trees, patterns, rain that comes with wind, the curvature of many objects, books with dust jackets, cats, rivers and Edgar Allan Poe. At 13, he is driven by two closely connected desires: to build a Perpetual Motion Machine and to connect with his mother, Noelle, who died when he was born.

At his new school, everything feels disorientating and overwhelming, but he meets two people who may be able to help. The story follows how Jamie’s mission affects the lives of his teachers, Tess and Tadhg, and helps bring a community together. Written with tenderness and verve, it explores love, family and connection, the power of imagination, and the idea that the greatest adventures do not happen alone.

Key details

• Publisher: Harvill Secker
• Longlisted for the Booker Prize 2023
• Shortlisted for Irish Novel of the Year 2023
• As seen on BBC Between the Covers

Synopsis

Jamie O’Neill is 13 and newly arrived at a school that feels overwhelming. He wants to build a Perpetual Motion Machine and, in doing so, find a way to connect with his mother Noelle, who died when he was born.

As he searches for help, he forms connections with his teachers, Tess and Tadhg. Jamie’s mission begins to change their lives and draws a community together on the west coast of Ireland.