Amy Liptrot on writing her way home

As Amy Liptrot prepared for the launch of her first book (the beautifully written memoir of addiction and reconstruction ‘The Outrun’) she talked to us in Orkney about how she was feeling. And how she'd felt when she first washed up back at her childhood home, after her life in London had fallen apart.
‘Amy Liptrot has lived her life on the edge of things, both literally and metaphorically. The Outrun, her beautiful first book, gives a wonderfully evocative account of both, blending searing memoir with sublime nature writing, and coming up with a unique piece of prose that amounts to a stirring personal philosophy of how to live. Her descriptive writing of the [Orkney] islands and their wildlife absolutely sizzles, a scintillating mix of clear-eyed insight and poetic heart. She ties in elements of myth and fantasy, some of the islands' remarkable history, and her own visceral experience to create something as compelling as any thriller. Amy Liptrot is the real deal, a writer whose voice seems fully formed on the page, and I can't wait to read what she writes next’ Independent on Sunday
‘A lyrical, brave memoir’ Will Self, Guardian
‘Brilliant . . . one of the most scabrously honest, sassy and moving books about addiction and recovery that I have read’ Scotsman
Available now at:
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[@knittingmayhem]

I hope that the publicity and acclaim (much deserved) that Amy is receiving at the moment does nothing to knock her off the path, but helps to reinforce her self-worth. She CAN do it without the booze and has proved it. All the best Amy.

[@MikeTaffet]

I just saw the premier of the film adaptation at Sundance. She’s over 12 years sober

[@jolenelevy934]

I just finished The Outrun by Amy and its the first book I've ever been able to read to the end, so far! (as a 25 year old, yep) I loved the way Amy wrote and how relatable some of the things she went through were. Thank you Amy for helping me finish my first ever book.

[@JanVoorbij52]

I'm just reading your book and enjoy it tremendously. As I myself am in the process of overcoming my problems with alcohol, I find your book very inspiring and comforting. Thank you so much.

[@sealife13]

Gaat het goed met minderen/ stoppen? Anders het boek nog een keer lezen. Olivia Laing heeft ook een mooi boek over alcoholverslaving geschreven.

[@Sophie-tj2bp]

God I loved reading this book. Visiting Orkney has always been somewhat of a dream of mine but this cements my desire firmly.

[@carrieoff]

What a beautiful place. Have just started reading Amy's book and am surprised at how young she is watching this video. Alcohol is a demon that I myself struggle with periodically so am feeling inspired by Amy's book to do something about it.

[@liwencui6204]

Thanks for your novel, I love it! The outrun , I can feel your feeling

[@annetaylor9493]

And now it' is going to be made in to a film...great. can't wait.

[@jennifermcc7385]

Thank you Amy for a wonderful book; it's one I'll keep to read again, all the very best from Jenny in Cardiff

[@francescainpillole]

Just reading this book, I am loving it so much.

[@mikeroberts510]

I'm really enjoying your book Amy. Thank you.

[@susanhonour9801]

I wish you all the best for your first book.

[@amybooth1993]

If anyone is interested this was being made into a film in Papa Westray last summer. Saoirse Ronan plays Amy. It's currently still in the editing stages. One of the crew was staying at The Pierowall Hotel in Westray where I work while they were filming!

[@alpedeer6260]

I love you Amy

[@avhrse8179]

I'm here after the screening of the movie adaptation of The Outrun at Sundance