Once part of a vibrant racing network, Portland Meadows is now seemingly the last haven for washed up jockeys and knackered horses, but it's there that Charley meets Pete, an old horse who becomes his companion as he's forced to try to make his own way in the world.

The third novel from this acclaimed author and musician, it was shortlisted for the IMPAC Prize in 2010. A tale of friendship and hope in dark times, it is to be made into a film starring Chloe Sevigny and Steve Buscemi.