A new novel from an exceptional writer who has won several awards for her work. Adam lives in the shadow of his siblings, so when he finds a mysterious alien creature on the beach, he is delighted to have a friend of his own at last. However, before long his meddling sister becomes involved and disagrees with Adam about the treatment of their secret friend. He appears to feel no pain - is it right to conduct experiments on him He shows no fear - should they entice him into dangerous situations? The plot takes a mysterious turn when the true identity of Adam's friend is revealed...This extraordinary story explores our definition of what it is to be 'human' and our reaction to 'difference'.