Peter Docker

Peter Docker is a British author of fiction whose works are full of characters seeking truths about their own lives and the world around them. His writing style has been described by critics as ‘lyrical, thought-provoking, and wryly humorous’.

Peter Docker was born in 1967 and grew up in the English village of Throgmorton. After completing a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia, he began his career as a freelance journalist and essayist, writing widely for both the printed and electronic media. This work led to his first novel, The Separation (2002), which was a critical and commercial success, garnering several awards, including the Whitbread First Novel Award.

The novel tells the story of Guy and James, two brothers who could not be more different. While Guy is an emotional, sensitive, and artistic individual, James is more practical, rugged, and focused on achieving results in his chosen career. When Guy embarks on a journey to discover the truth behind his mother’s death and the rumors that his father was involved, James stays by his side in the hope of preventing any more grief from coming to his brother. Their journey of self-discovery leads them to revelations about their family, friendship, and the meaning of life itself.

Since his debut novel, Peter Docker has gone on to write many more novels, including Since I Was Here (2010), Mapping the Roads to Home (2013), and Gaps in the Canopy (2016). His works have been praised by critics for their insight and sensitivity, as well as the engaging, powerful stories they tell.

Docker’s 2017 novel, All She Has (shortlisted for The British Book Awards’ ‘Young Adults Book of the Year’), is a wonderful coming of age story about the power of friendship. It follows three teenage friends – Astrid, Kaya, and Isa – as they face life’s challenges together. Not only are the characters engaging and realistically drawn, but the novel is filled with messages about the importance of friendship and finding your own path in life.

In addition to his fiction writing, Docker also produces non-fiction works. His 2012 book, Navigating Life After Trauma, is an inspiring guide to helping those coping with loss, whether it be sudden bereavement, a severe accident, or a serious illness. Again, here, Docker balances sensitivity with the ability to make difficult emotions tangible, offering advice and insight on how to deal with such circumstances.

No matter what genre Docker is writing, his works have a common theme: the exploration of the inner heart and the importance of seeking our truths. His stories are ultimately a celebration of life and all its contradictions, and his unwavering commitment to these questions make his writing truly unique.