The Laying on of Hands

Three Captivating Stories from Britain's Acclaimed Author Alan Bennett

This volume brings together three compelling short stories from one of Britain's most admired authors and playwrights, Alan Bennett. In The Laying On Of Hands, Bennett showcases his signature wit and mischievous style in a satirical tale about a society memorial service for a young masseur who met a tragic end in Peru.

In the poignant "Father! Father! Burning Bright," Bennett delves into the complex relationship between a son and his dying father, capturing their lifelong battle with tragicomic insight. Through spare yet powerful prose, he unflinchingly portrays the random thoughts and haphazard conversations of family members as they confront life and death in a hospital waiting room.

Finally, in "Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet," part of the acclaimed Talking Heads series, a podiatrist opens up new possibilities for a lonely department store clerk, showing her that life holds more than just caring for her brother. The New York Times hailed this short story as both "touching" and "hilarious," exemplifying Bennett's mastery of the form.