The Short History Of A Prince

Set in Jane Hamilton's signature Midwest, The Short History Of A Prince is the story of Walter McCloud and his ambition to become a great ballet dancer. "Jane Hamilton has removed all doubt that she belongs among the major writers of our time"  (San Francisco Chronicle).

"With intelligence and empathy–and drawing on rich veins of irony - Hamilton tells the story of Walter’s search to define his talents – at once surprising and redemptive."  –  The New York Times Book

Walter McCloud is a boy with dreams unlike most. Introduced as a child to the genius of Balanchine and the lyricism of Tchaikovsky, Walter has always aspired to be a dancer. As he grows older, it becomes clear that despite his desire, he lacks the talent, and he faces the painful knowledge that his more gifted friends have already surpassed him. Soon, however, that pain is overshadowed when his older brother, Daniel, finds a strange lump on his neck and Walter realizes that a happy family can change overnight. 

"[Hamilton] can make real life riveting..There can be no better recommendation for a novelist." – Denver Post

The year that follows transforms the McClouds, as they try to hold together in the face of the fearful consequences of Daniel’s illness, and Walter makes discoveries about himself and his friendships that will change him forever.

A moving story of the torments of sexuality and the redemptive power of family and friendship, The Short History of a Prince confirms Jane Hamilton’s place as a preeminent novelist of our time.