A bizarre sequence in the Judean wilderness where the archetypal characters are each attempting to spend 40 days fasting,  for their own reasons.   One has terminal cancer, another is barren, the compulsive dealer and money-maker is there, as is Jesus, called “Gally” by the others.   Fascinating character study, an intense reading experience.

Booker shortlist 1997 - possibly the one which should have won!