Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, 2011. This historical adventure from the author of Scapegallows was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize, 2011. 1857. Jaffy Brown is running along a street in London's East End when he comes face to face with an escaped circus animal. He is plucked from the jaws of death by Mr Jamrach-explorer, entrepreneur and collector of the world's strangest creatures-and the two strike up a friendship. Before he knows it, Jaffy finds himself on board a ship bound for the Dutch East Indies, on an unusual commission for Mr Jamrach. His journey-if he survives it-will push faith, love and friendship to their utmost limits. 'One of the best stories I've ever read.' A. S. Byatt