A Long Winter by Colm Tóibín
A Long Winter by Colm Tóibín is a short literary novel about a son and father facing a mother’s disappearance in a remote Pyrenean village. Its 144-page length and themes of loss, loneliness and survival may suit readers looking for a compact, character-focused story.
At a glance
- Centres on Miquel and his father after Miquel’s mother disappears from their home in the Pyrenees.
- Explores family resentment, loneliness, stoicism, survival and the possibility of new love.
- A 144-page edition for readers seeking a relatively short novel.
Reference price: £12.99
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- The concise 144-page length makes this a shorter read than a full-length novel.
- The premise brings family conflict and a remote winter setting together, with a new character arriving to help in the household.
Technical specifications
10 specifications| Publisher | Picador |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 4 Sept. 2025 |
| Edition | Main Market |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 144 pages |
| Reading age | 18 years and up |
| ISBN-10 | 1035079844 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1035079841 |
| Weight listed | 196 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.8 x 1.8 x 17.6 cm |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of literary fiction focused on family relationships and emotional change.
- Readers looking for a short novel about loss, isolation and survival.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a light or plot-driven adventure, as the description foregrounds loss, loneliness and family tensions.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
39% 39% - 4 stars
33% 33% - 3 stars
19% 19% - 2 stars
6% 6% - 1 star
3% 3%
Customer feedback describes the book as compelling, with an engaging narrative, and mentions its portrayal of stoicism and loneliness. Value for money receives mixed reactions. The reported response to the story may matter more than the modest 144-page length for readers choosing a short literary novel, while the split on value means price appeal is personal. Aggregate ratings are broadly favourable but include a substantial middle range and some lower ratings, so they do not establish a uniform response.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as compelling and its narrative as engaging.
- Feedback highlights its portrayal of stoicism and loneliness.
Mixed feedback
- Customers express mixed views on value for money.
Frequently asked questions
What is A Long Winter about?
After Miquel’s mother leaves home and does not return, he and his father face a harsh winter together. An orphaned servant boy arrives to help, while Miquel searches for his mother and confronts her absence.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 144 pages.
Who might enjoy this book?
It may appeal to readers interested in literary fiction about family bonds, loss, loneliness and the possibility of a different life.
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