Barracuda by Christos Tsiolkas is a raw, confronting, and deeply human story about identity, ambition, shame, and redemption. Set in working-class Melbourne, it follows fourteen-year-old Daniel Kelly — a gifted swimmer with Olympic-sized dreams. His talent is his ticket out, a way to rise above his circumstances and make his family proud.
But when his career derails in a moment of devastating failure, Danny’s life spirals into rage, violence, and regret. Years later, living in Scotland and carrying the weight of his past — including time spent in prison — Dan struggles with guilt and the fear that his true self might never be worthy of love.
This powerful novel isn’t just about sport; it’s about class, masculinity, friendship, and how people try to rebuild when the foundations of their identity are shattered. Tsiolkas is known for his uncompromising, emotionally charged storytelling and Barracuda is no exception.
