Unless Winner of the Ethel Wilson Prize 2003

Praise for Carol Shields:

'Her perceptions are so quick, her style is so acute, that she can tack a breath to the page and skewer a thought on the wing. It is her speciality to isolate moments that remain distinct in the mind for years, perhaps for a lifetime.' Hilary Mantel, Sunday Times

'Few writers could make a book about what it means to be alone this charming.' Observer

'A wonderful, powerful book, written in a style which combines simplicity and elegance. Deeply moving.' Joanne Harris

'Shields writes like an angel, awesome in the intelligence of her observations and never less than elegant in expressing them.' David Robson, Sunday Telegraph

'It takes the vessel of fiction in its hands and hurls it to the floor...a masterpiece.' Rachel Cusk, New Statesman

'As poised and wise a novel as any you will read this year.' Tim Adams, Observer

'Our most intelligent and beguiling observer..."Unless" is her most raw and intentful novel yet.' Penny Perrick, Sunday Times

'Her wisdom and generosity of spirit are visible at every turn.' Sunday Times