An Experiment in Compassion shifts between Stevie's life as an alcoholic and his sober life where he forges a relationship with his girlfriend and estranged son. Following a myriad of characters and their stories, this piece of fiction provides an emotional and intense insight into the world of alcoholism whilst exploring themes of revenge and forgiveness.
one of the most effortlessly charming books I've read in a long time. THE SCOTTISH REVIEW OF BOOKS on My Epileptic Lurcher
simultaneously hilarious and touching, morose and vividly energetic THE HERALD on Monks
The writing is always truthful, immediate and powerful SCOTLAND ON SUNDAY on Six Black Candles
Des Dillon was born and brought up in Coatbridge. He is a poet, short story writer, novelist and dramatist writing for radio, stage, television and film. He was writer in residence at Castlemilk from 1998 to 2000, and has worked as a teacher of English, a creative writing tutor, and a TV scriptwriter. His novels have been translated into Russian and Italian. His novel, Me and Ma Gal, first published in 1995, was selected as one of The List/Scottish Book Trust's 100 Best Scottish Books of all time. His acclaimed play Singin' I'm no a Billy, He's a Tim is probably the most performed play in Scotland in the last five years - in 2011 it will be touring in England with the prestigious Guy Masterton Productions. He now lives in Galloway, and also currently performs stand up comedy.