Stonemouth

Book Review

«Stonemouth» by Ian Banks is a novel in which the dark poetry of the Scottish coast becomes not just a backdrop but an active participant in the drama. The author masterfully weaves into the narrative the atmosphere of misty streets and salty wind, where past and present collide in the shifting space of memory. The protagonist, returning to his hometown after five years of exile, faces the ghosts of youth, unresolved conflicts, and painful love. Banks delicately explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the inevitability of growing up, without lapsing into sentimentality. Critics note the exquisite handling of dialogue, the psychological authenticity of the characters, and a distinctive, almost cinematic atmosphere. «Stonemouth» is not just a story of return, but a profound reflection on the nature of memory, family ties, and the fragility of human relationships, written with Banks's characteristic irony and insight.