Presents a vicar's ludicrous expedition in 1857 to the Garden of Eden in Tasmania.

Nine-year-old Lawrence watches protectively over his mother and his sister. His mother decides the three of them must leave their life in England behind. Their destination is Rome. Though short of money, it seems that their new life is beginning to take shape. But the mystery that brought them to Italy will not quite leave them in peace.

Nine-year-old Lawrence is the man in his family, watching protectively over his mother and his wilful little sister Jemima. When the three of them suddenly move to Rome it seems at first to be a great adventure. But Lawrence's excitement at his new surroundings gives way to something far harder to endure.

A powerful, richly inventive new novel from the Whitbread Award-winning, Booker-shortlisted author of English Passengers.

Takes us on a journey around modern uncertain world. From England to South America, China to the Middle East, the United States to Africa, this book captures the lives of ordinary people as they struggle to live, and to do the right thing, often managing neither.