Willy Vlautin - Lean on Pete

The Telegraph“A brutal novel...” Sung in Vlautin’s throaty twang, such lines as “I drifted and I drifted, ended up in Wyoming/I got so broke I sold my car” verge on self-parody. That Charley’s voice never does is perhaps the novel’s most miraculous escape of all...

Publishers Weekly“A blend of road novel and not-quite hard luck story...” Vlautin’s characters, despite their unrealistic arcs, shine with his sparse style. It might be difficult to believe Charley’s bottomless cache of silver linings, but it’s remarkably easy to root for the kid...

Guardian“Every character is distinctly drawn and memorable...” For sheer cinéma-vérité detailing of American life right now, Lean on Pete is a good place to start. Just don't give it to the kids...

The Scotsman“A roller-coaster ride of emotions...” Lean On Pete, by author and musician Willy Vlautin, plumbs the depths of despair but finally rewards you with redemption...

The Independent“Huck Finn for the crystal-meth generation...” If there's the occasional touch of sentimentality, it's hard-earned and welcome. This is a sad, often brutal, but oddly beautiful portrait of an America that's forgotten only because we choose not to remember its continuing existence.

Economist“Not yet reviewed”

Financial Times“Not yet reviewed”

The New York Times“Not yet reviewed”

The New Yorker“Not yet reviewed”

The Times“Not yet reviewed”