Soldier Sailor is the latest novel by Irish author Claire Kilroy, published in 2023. It was a Times Novel of the Year and was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction in 2024.
I try to read as many books featured on the Women’s Prize shortlist as I can, so I was excited to read this one.
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Plot
Soldier Sailor is a raw and emotional journey through early motherhood. The story follows Soldier as she grapples with the overwhelming love for her son, Sailor, while trying to maintain her sense of self in a world consumed by baby groups and domestic routines.
As her marriage strains under the weight of parenthood, Soldier finds herself longing for the person she used to be, grasping at moments of connection with her former life.
Soldier Sailor Book Review
Gosh, I loved this book. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that so perfectly encapsulates what it’s like to be a new parent.
I particularly enjoyed how it felt like the author was writing a letter to her son. It added such a personal touch to the story, like we were getting a peek into her innermost thoughts and feelings. It’s like you’re right there with her as she pours her heart out to her little boy, sharing her joys, fears, and everything in between.
The book is really fast paced and reads like a constant stream of thoughts pouring out. Kilroy writes as if she’s thinking it, which makes the story incredibly relatable.
Claire Kilroy’s portrayal of motherhood is so visceral, raw, and at times, gutwrenchingly honest. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions – dark, sad, funny, and wise all at once.
Reading it, I was transported back to those early days of parenting and it was a reminder how overwhelming, exhausting and often lonely it can be. But amidst the chaos, there’s humour and wisdom woven in, reminding us of the boundless love that parenthood brings.
Soldier Sailor beautifully sums up the profound journey of being a parent to an infant, capturing the overwhelming love and responsibility that comes with it.
Has Claire Kilroy written any other novels?
Claire Kilroy has written several other novels including:
What to read next
If you enjoyed Soldier Sailor you may also enjoy other books on the Women’s Prize for Fiction Longlist. I would personally recommend The Maiden by Kate Foster and Restless Dolly Maunder by Kate Grenville.