Shuggie Bain is a powerful and deeply moving debut novel set in 1980s Glasgow during a time of widespread unemployment and social hardship.
 
The story follows Hugh “Shuggie” Bain, a young boy growing up in poverty and navigating life with his mother, Agnes, whose struggles with alcoholism dominate their lives. Despite the bleak environment, the novel explores themes of resilience, love, shame, and identity, capturing both the hardship and humanity of working-class Scotland.
 
Douglas Stuart’s unflinching portrayal of addiction and tenderness between mother and son earned widespread critical acclaim. The novel went on to win the 2020 Booker Prize, cementing its place as one of the most significant literary debuts of the 21st century.
 
This book (unclipped) is a true first UK edition signed by Douglas Stuart via bookplate on the title page.
 
Notably, Shuggie Bain was initially published in small print runs prior to its Booker Prize win, making true first editions relatively scarce and collectible.
The first printing includes the full number line “10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1”.