Armadillo
In 'Armadillo,' William Boyd weaves a riveting tale of a young London architect who finds himself entangled in the chaotic world of art, war, and redemption. As he grapples with ambition and personal betrayal, the protagonist embarks on a journey that challenges his ideals and redefines his understanding of truth and loyalty. Amidst the backdrop of the late 20th century's shifting cultural landscape, mysteries unravel, and friendships are tested. This thought-provoking novel delves into the complexities of human connection and the haunting choices that shape our lives. Will he find the courage to confront his past and reclaim his future?
By William Boyd
Published: 1998
"Life is a series of second chances, with each moment a fleeting opportunity to redefine who we are."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
A social satire on Britain, featuring an insurance claims adjustor who descends from East European gypsies. He navigates the shoals of class with an invented past, matching wits with executives trying to diddle his company.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Armadillo
About the Author
William Boyd
William Boyd is a distinguished British author and screenwriter, known for his intricately plotted narratives and rich character development. He gained prominence with novels such as 'A Good Man in Africa', which won the Whitbread Prize, and 'Any Human Heart', a poignant exploration of love and loss. Boyd's writing style is characterized by its wit, lyrical prose, and a keen psychological insight into his characters. He has also made significant contributions to literature through works like 'Restless', 'Waiting for Sunrise', and 'The Vanishing Futurist', demonstrating his versatility across various genres.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- William Boyd
- Published
- January 1998
- Publisher
- Alfred A. Knopf
- ISBN
- 0375402233
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 362
- Genres
- Contemporary FictionFictionLiterary Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Americanah
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Cooked
Michael Pollan
NW
Zadie Smith
The No Asshole Rule
Robert I. Sutton
The Billion-Dollar Molecule
Barry Werth
A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L'Engle
Love, an Index
Rebecca Lindenberg
Dinner: A Love Story
Jenny Rosenstrach
Design for Real Life
Eric A. Meyer, Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Normal People
Sally Rooney
Burr
Gore Vidal
Stories of Your Life and Others
Ted Chiang
Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life
Steven C. Hayes, Spencer Xavier Smith
The Door
Magda Szabo
Ruby (Oprah's Book Club 2.0)
Cynthia Bond
The Quest for El Cid
Richard A. Fletcher
Daisy Jones & The Six
Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)
Colson Whitehead
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Junot Díaz
Ways of Escape
Graham Greene
War Is A Racket
Smedley D. Butler
The Flamethrowers
Rachel Kushner
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 1
Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird
Change Your Thoughts - Change Your Life
Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
Jonathan Safran Foer
The Chill
Scott Carson
Crudo
Olivia Laing
Quartet in Autumn
Barbara Pym
The Lonely Silver Rain
John D. MacDonald
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Lex Fridman's Book Recommendations
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
View Collection
Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View Collection
Jack Edwards's Book Recommendations
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
View Collection
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
View Collection
Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View Collection
John Green's Book Recommendations
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations
Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Anderson Cooper's Book Recommendations
Anderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View Collection
Ann Handley's Book Recommendations
Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
View Collection
Darren Aronofsky's Book Recommendations
Darren Aronofsky is an American filmmaker, known for his psychologically intense and visually stunning films, including Requiem for a Dream, Black Swan, and The Wrestler. Aronofsky’s work often explores themes of obsession, identity, and self-destruction, and his unique directorial style has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. His ability to blend dark, complex narratives with striking visuals has made him one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary cinema. Aronofsky is also an advocate for environmental sustainability and has used his platform to raise awareness about climate change. His films continue to push boundaries and provoke thought on a range of human experiences.
View Collection
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations
Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Daniel Burka's Book Recommendations
Daniel Burka is a prominent figure in the tech and design world, best known for his significant contributions to digital product design. As a design partner at GV (formerly Google Ventures), he has played a crucial role in shaping the user experience of numerous successful startups. Burka co-founded the design agency MetaLab, which has worked with top-tier clients like Slack and Coinbase. Additionally, his work at Digg as the Director of Design helped pioneer social media design trends in the early 2000s. While not primarily an author, Burka's influence extends into literature through his insightful writings and talks on design and innovation.
View Collection
Richard Branson's Book Recommendations
Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Nelson Mandela's Book Recommendations
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and political leader who became the country's first black president from 1994 to 1999. Renowned for his lifelong struggle against racial segregation, he spent 27 years in prison before his release in 1990, which marked a pivotal moment in South Africa's transition to a multiracial democracy. Mandela's literary contributions include his acclaimed autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," which chronicles his early life, education, and 27 years in prison. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for his efforts to dismantle apartheid and foster reconciliation. Mandela's legacy endures as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a champion for peace and social justice.
View Collection
Nancy Pearl's Book Recommendations
Nancy Pearl is an American librarian, author, and literary critic, best known for her work in promoting reading and literature. She gained national recognition with her Book Lust series, which provides recommendations on a wide range of books for all types of readers. Pearl’s enthusiasm for books and reading has made her a beloved figure in the literary community, and her “One City One Book” program has inspired cities across the U.S. to come together through shared reading experiences. Pearl is also known for her regular book reviews and discussions on public radio. Her influence as a literary advocate has helped foster a culture of reading and learning.
View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations
Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View Collection
Rolf Potts's Book Recommendations
Rolf Potts is a renowned travel writer best known for his influential book "Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel," which has inspired countless readers to explore the world on their own terms. Born in 1970, Potts has contributed to numerous prestigious publications such as National Geographic Traveler, The New Yorker, and The New York Times. He is celebrated for his emphasis on the philosophy of travel as a means of personal growth and cultural understanding. Potts has also taught writing at institutions like Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. His work continues to shape the travel writing genre and inspire adventurers around the globe.
View Collection
Christopher Hitchens's Book Recommendations
Christopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.
View Collection“Life is a series of second chances, with each moment a fleeting opportunity to redefine who we are.”
Armadillo
By William Boyd
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.