Fingers in the Sparkle Jar

This memoir by Chris Packham is a deeply personal and emotionally exposing account of his childhood in the 1970s.

It recounts his isolation and obsessions, particularly his relationship with a kestrel he raised as a boy.

The book touches on tough topics such as mental illness, attempted suicide, and family breakdowns, all handled with exquisite care.

Packham's narrative is unique, moving between different tenses and viewpoints, and includes sections where he discusses his life with a therapist.

The book is a poignant exploration of his search for freedom, meaning, and acceptance in a world that did not understand him, and how his passion for nature helped him through the darkest times.