Hunger and Thirst by Claire Fuller review – a blend of social realism and gothic horror
Hunger and Thirst by Claire Fuller intertwines social realism with gothic horror through the story of Ursula, a sculptor shaped by her traumatic past. The narrative explores Ursula's life, marked by her mother's death and her experiences in the care system, leading to a dark friendship with Sue. As the story unfolds, it delves into themes of betrayal and the haunting nature of creativity amidst horror.
- ▪Ursula's life is profoundly affected by her mother's death and her experiences in children's homes.
- ▪The novel oscillates between social realism and gothic horror, culminating in a documentary about Sue's murder.
- ▪Ursula discovers her creative vocation through sculpting, reflecting her tumultuous emotional landscape.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Thick dust coats an abandoned dwelling in Hunger and Thirst. Photograph: Jon Davison/AlamyView image in fullscreenThick dust coats an abandoned dwelling in Hunger and Thirst. Photograph: Jon Davison/AlamyBook of the dayFictionReviewHunger and Thirst by Claire Fuller review – a blend of social realism and gothic horrorIn this lurid, big-boned, often brilliant book about a sculptor and a true-crime documentary, state-of-the-nation commentary and gruesome chills combineLara FeigelFri 22 May 2026 02.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleClaire Fuller is fascinated by corpses: by the moment when a supple, beloved body turns into inert, heavy matter.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — Books.
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